Description: The question on whether Ukraine can join NATO and how, had been widely discussed since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022. Although several articles in NATO’s Statute don’t allow for a country which is in conflict to enter NATO membership accession negotiations there are several exclusions. Under those exigent circumstances, Ukraine would have to declare and issue a non – use of force pledge, NATO would have to send an official invitation and amend the accession criteria labeled in Article 6.
Impact: Ukraine’s accession to NATO although a largely discussed geopolitical topic still doesn’t seem possible. Even if several conditions under which Ukraine could possibly enter the Alliance are fulfilled, the lack of political will and the expected calculative support towards Ukraine under the Trump administration bury the lead on possible accession talks. In the hypothetical scenario European countries such as France, Germany and the UK would strenuously object Ukraine’s accession process not unless political rules of engagement with Russia aren’t discussed first.