Russia's foreign ministry spokesperson, Maria Zakharova, stated that Ukraine's potential membership in NATO is deemed 'unacceptable' by Moscow. Zakharova emphasized that such a move would pose significant security threats and have dire consequences for Europe. She urged NATO to retract its 2008 Bucharest promises, which left the door open for Ukraine and Georgia to join the alliance in the future.
Recent statements by US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth cast doubt on Ukraine's immediate NATO membership prospects, citing the need for a negotiated settlement with Russia. However, Hegseth later clarified that all options remain open for Ukraine during negotiations. Despite this, NATO reaffirmed last year that Ukraine is on an 'irreversible path' to membership, without specifying a timeline.
A NATO official reiterated that Ukraine's membership is a decision for the alliance's allies and not subject to negotiation with Russia. The official maintained that Ukraine remains on track for NATO accession, despite differing opinions within the international community.
