NATO still divided on Ukraine’s membership bid Secretary General says

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg announced that the alliance has not yet achieved consensus among its member states regarding Ukraine's potential invitation to join NATO.

In an online interview with media, Stoltenberg clarified that NATO’s ability to extend an invitation to Ukraine hinges on the agreement of all member countries, Caliber.Az reports via Russian media.

“There can’t be an invitation until member states agree. This requires consensus, and we don’t have it yet,” he stated.

Stoltenberg’s comments come amid ongoing discussions within NATO about Ukraine’s membership bid. While Ukraine has expressed strong interest in joining the alliance, the lack of a unified stance among current NATO members continues to delay any formal invitation.

The issue remains a significant point of debate within the alliance, reflecting varying perspectives on Ukraine’s readiness for membership and the broader geopolitical implications of such a move.

Meanwhile, Stoltenberg underlined that long-term peace in Ukraine requires NATO membership.

The NATO chief has asserted that lasting peace in Ukraine will remain elusive until the country secures membership in the alliance.

Stoltenberg emphasized that NATO membership is crucial for Ukraine's long-term stability. 

"In the long term, there can be no peace in Ukraine without Ukraine becoming part of NATO," Stoltenberg stated.