Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for the fresh commitments of weapons and ammunition, as well as long-term security assurances from Western leaders at the conclusion of the annual Group of Seven (G7) summit. While he hailed the security victory and the bridge it provided towards eventual NATO membership, Zelenskyy also voiced disappointment over the absence of a clear path for Ukraine to join the alliance.
The G7 joint declaration laid the groundwork for individual negotiations between Ukraine and member nations to enhance the country’s military capabilities in the long term. Zelenskyy emphasized the significance of this initiative as a deterrent against Russia and a step towards NATO membership. U.S. President Joe Biden assured continued support, stating that the United States would assist Ukraine in building a robust defense.
During a private meeting, Biden reiterated his commitment, acknowledging Zelenskyy’s frustrations regarding the pace of military assistance and assuring him that the United States was making every effort to fulfill Ukraine’s needs. Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for the support and highlighted the importance of the assistance in Ukraine’s fight against Russia, including the controversial cluster munitions.
The NATO summit concluded with the launch of the NATO-Ukraine Council, serving as a permanent body for consultations and emergency meetings between the alliance’s members and Ukraine. The establishment of this forum represents NATO’s efforts to bring Ukraine closer to the alliance without granting immediate membership. The summit’s communique stated that Ukraine could join when certain conditions were met and when the allies reached an agreement.
While Zelenskyy appreciated the military assistance promised by the G7, he expressed disappointment that no invitation for NATO membership was extended. He highlighted the motivation that NATO membership would provide for Ukrainian society as they resist Russia. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg acknowledged the importance of Ukraine and expressed hope for future membership.
The divisive issue of Ukraine’s future membership remained emotionally charged throughout the summit. Western countries were willing to support Ukraine with weapons while refraining from extending full membership due to concerns about the country’s democracy and deep-rooted corruption. Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo emphasized the need for a delicate balance that allows support for Ukraine while avoiding direct involvement in the war.
Amanda Sloat, senior director of European affairs for the U.S. National Security Council, defended the summit’s decisions and noted that Ukraine would not need to go through a traditional “membership action plan” but would still need to undergo governance and security sector reforms.
Although symbols of support for Ukraine were visible in Vilnius, there was caution within the summit itself, particularly from President Biden, who expressed reservations about Ukraine’s readiness for NATO membership. The lack of a defined end to hostilities and concerns about the conflict escalating further were cited as factors contributing to the cautious approach.
The G7 framework includes long-term commitments to Ukraine’s security, such as swift and sustained security assistance, modern military equipment, and economic support. The major powers also pledged to impose additional sanctions on Russia. However, Moscow responded harshly to the G7 plan, considering it ill-judged and a threat to Russia’s security.
Ukraine’s past experiences with security guarantees, including the Budapest Memorandum in 1994, have left the country feeling let down. Zelenskyy highlighted that Ukraine was left to defend itself alone without the mutual defense agreement that comes with NATO membership.
While the summit in Vilnius had its share of conflicts and compromises, it concluded with Turkey unexpectedly dropping its objections to Sweden’s membership in NATO. However, Turkish President Erdogan stated that his country’s parliament could not consider the matter until October. Erdogan, who is keen on strengthening his relationship with Biden, has also sought advanced American fighter jets and a path towards European Union membership. The White House has shown support for these goals but clarified that they are not directly tied to Sweden’s NATO membership.