Staff Reports
NATO has once again reaffirmed its support for Ukraine, stating that all of its members agree that Ukraine will eventually join the alliance. However, there are some conditions that need to be met first. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has made it clear that Ukraine cannot become a member while the war is still ongoing, and significant reforms need to take place.
Stoltenberg emphasized that Ukraine’s priority should be on implementing the necessary reforms to align itself with NATO standards. This includes full interoperability between Ukrainian and NATO forces, based on NATO doctrines and training procedures. He also stressed that Ukraine must achieve peace before it can join the alliance.
‘Stalemate’: Ukraine’s Top General Invokes WWI, Says NATO Doctrine Hasn’t Helped https://t.co/2LWbByBEHP
— Breitbart London (@BreitbartLondon) November 2, 2023
While there has been criticism and caution from some NATO members, Ukraine remains enthusiastic about joining. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky even considers Ukraine to be a de facto member of NATO already. Despite this enthusiasm, there are concerns about Ukraine’s readiness for membership. Germany’s Chancellor Olaf Scholz, for example, believes that NATO is “far from” being ready to accept Ukraine as a member.
From a conservative perspective, it is important to consider the potential implications and responsibilities of Ukraine’s NATO membership. While it is understandable that Ukraine seeks protection and support from the alliance, it is crucial to ensure that Ukraine has successfully addressed issues such as corruption, oligarchy, lobbying, and minority rights before joining. Joining NATO should not be rushed and should be based on meeting the alliance’s criteria.
Overall, NATO’s support for Ukraine’s membership is a positive signal, but caution and thorough reforms are necessary to ensure a successful integration into the alliance.
