Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has put forth his Victory Plan, advocating for Ukraine’s NATO membership. The Lithuanian Defence Minister Laurynas Kasčiūnas has voiced support for this proposal, stating that extending an invitation for membership to Ukraine is crucial for ensuring its future security and deterring Russia. He emphasized that Russia should not have a veto over NATO enlargement.
While some countries like Lithuania see inviting Ukraine to NATO as a necessary step, others like the US may view it as provocative towards Russia. At a NATO Summit last July, Ukraine was told it was on an irreversible path towards membership, but no formal invitation was extended.
Kasčiūnas highlighted that an invitation does not equate to full membership, as Ukraine will need time to meet NATO standards. However, it would send a strong signal to Russia and Ukraine about the West’s support for Ukraine’s independence and western direction.
He argued that the current inaction towards Russia is counterproductive, emphasizing the need for stronger action. Kasčiūnas urged for providing Ukraine with more weapons for deterrence, as the Baltic countries had long warned about the consequences of ignoring Russia’s actions.
Overall, the support for Ukraine’s NATO membership from allies like Lithuania reflects a strategic and moral stance towards guaranteeing Ukraine’s security and sovereignty in the face of Russian aggression.
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