NATO’s head says allies haven’t agreed on Ukraine membership
Speaking ahead of a NATO foreign ministers’ meeting in Brussels, Rutte noted that allies will review evolving security threats and consider steps to enhance deterrence and defense prior to the next NATO summit scheduled in Ankara, Türkiye, in July.
He highlighted the commitments made at the Hague Summit, where allies agreed to spend 5% of GDP on defense, including 3.5% on core defense capabilities, adding that "allies have made meaningful progress since then."
Rutte stressed that NATO’s security remains closely linked to the ongoing war in Ukraine and praised US-led efforts to achieve a just and lasting peace, stating, "I'm confident that these sustained efforts will eventually restore peace in Europe."
Regarding Ukraine’s potential membership in the alliance, he said: "The practical situation is, as you know, that this consensus required by all allies for Ukraine to join NATO. And right now, as you know, there is no consensus on Ukraine joining NATO."
Asked about the prospects of a peace deal or ceasefire before the Ankara summit, Rutte responded, "We pray for a peace deal or a full ceasefire before the summit, so let's hope it doesn't have to wait till then."
On military assistance, he indicated that some NATO members are expected to announce new contributions to Ukraine in the near future.
Rutte also addressed the absence of US Secretary of State Marco Rubio from the meeting, saying he remains "very much involved" in diplomatic efforts on Ukraine despite other obligations. "I totally accept him not being able to be here tomorrow, and I would not read anything in it," he added.
On security in the Black Sea, Rutte noted Türkiye’s concerns, describing recent incidents as "further evidence of the broader security risks posed by Russia's ongoing war against Ukraine."
He confirmed that NATO is cooperating closely with Türkiye and other allies to ensure the success of the Ankara summit, including increasing defense industrial production and leveraging Türkiye’s capabilities.
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