NATO chief confirms Ukraine’s membership no longer on the agenda

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has confirmed that Ukraine's potential membership in the alliance is no longer a priority. 

Speaking in an interview with US media, Rutte affirmed that the issue is no longer on the table for discussions, Caliber.Az reports.

When asked whether US President Donald Trump had removed the question of Ukraine’s NATO membership from negotiations, Rutte responded with a simple, “Yes.”

His comments come amid ongoing discussions regarding Ukraine’s future in international alliances as the war with Russia continues.

Further complicating Ukraine's relations with the West, Rutte also stated that NATO would not be involved in any efforts to enforce a ceasefire in Ukraine should a peace agreement be reached.

In the same interview, Rutte explained that while NATO would likely offer guidance, direct involvement in ceasefire enforcement would be a challenge. “I think it would be difficult for NATO to participate in this,” he remarked, emphasising the complexities of such a role.

However, he suggested that the alliance could provide advice on the best course of action in the event of a truce.

Rutte also made clear that discussions on security guarantees for Ukraine could only occur after a ceasefire is in place. This aligns with broader diplomatic efforts to create a framework for peace in the region.

These remarks signal a shift in NATO’s stance, particularly as attention turns toward the prospect of a ceasefire and the future role of the alliance in ensuring Ukraine’s security.

By Aghakazim Guliyev