Ukrainian government outlines expectations of NATO Washington Summit

Ukraine’s expectations of the upcoming NATO summit in Washington include decisions on its membership of the Alliance, strengthening its ability to defend itself against Russia, and Patriot systems.

On 9-11 July, 32 NATO member states will gather in Washington to mark the 75th anniversary of the Alliance.

The summit will focus mainly on building up defence production and achieving defence budget targets in the face of threats from Russia. Aid to Ukraine will also be a priority, and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy plans to join the meeting.

"Ukraine awaits decisions that will help significantly strengthen the country's defence and the ability to repel Russian aggression, as well as become a safeguard against repeated attacks in the future," Olha Stefanishyna, Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration, said in an interview with Politico.

In addition, she said, Kyiv expects "specific decisions regarding Ukraine's membership in NATO, in a package with other guarantees of continuity of military aid and increased interoperability".

The Deputy Prime Minister said Ukraine wants to take the opportunity to promote specific practical initiatives that would ensure reliable air and missile defence systems throughout its territory.

"A sufficient number of Patriot systems will help ensure the security of peaceful cities and critical infrastructure, which is a key element of our survival in the coming winter," she said.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the July summit in Washington should provide a "bridge" to Ukraine's NATO membership.

Earlier, US Ambassador to NATO Julianne Smith said the meeting of the North Atlantic Alliance leaders in Washington would be important in terms of changing the wording regarding Ukraine's membership prospects.

She said NATO has agreed on the need to send a political message about Ukraine's pathway to NATO membership.