Story perspectives

Ukraine Says NATO Membership Unfeasible, Needs 12 Years

8/4/2026

Summary

Story summary

Valerii Zaluzhnyi, Ukraine’s ambassador to the United Kingdom and former military commander, said Ukraine cannot join NATO because its forces lack the development required to meet alliance standards.
He warned that NATO would need 12 years to reach standards matching Russia’s capability.
He said Ukraine needs anti-missile defence and space technology used by NATO.
He suggested Ukraine pursue a military bloc or the Joint Expeditionary Force instead of NATO membership.

History

Historical Context

In 1999 NATO admitted the Czech Republic, Hungary and Poland, its first enlargement after the Cold War and the start of a wave that added 16 members through 2024. Ukraine’s ambassador Valerii Zaluzhnyi says Kyiv still lacks the capabilities and security requirements for NATO entry, prompting talks as it explores alternative coalitions.

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Story summary

Valerii Zaluzhnyi, Ukraine’s ambassador to the United Kingdom and former military commander, said Ukraine cannot join NATO because its forces lack the development required to meet alliance standards.
He warned that NATO would need 12 years to reach standards matching Russia’s capability.
He said Ukraine needs anti-missile defence and space technology used by NATO.
He suggested Ukraine pursue a military bloc or the Joint Expeditionary Force instead of NATO membership.

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