During an interview with CNN’s Fareed Zakaria ahead of his trip to Europe for a NATO summit, US President Joe Biden stated that Ukraine is not currently prepared for NATO membership. He emphasized the need for the war between Ukraine and Russia to end before the alliance can consider Ukraine’s inclusion. Biden assured that the US and NATO allies would continue supporting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and his forces with security and weaponry to help resolve the conflict.
In the interview, Biden referred to the consideration of Ukraine’s NATO membership as “premature” while the war persists. He highlighted the importance of establishing a peace agreement with Russia before initiating the process. Biden mentioned the commitment of NATO to defend every inch of its territory, emphasizing that if Ukraine were a member during an ongoing war, it would imply collective engagement in the conflict with Russia.
While acknowledging that the US provides security and weaponry to Ukraine, Biden also stressed the necessity of a rational path for Ukraine to qualify for NATO membership. He cited democratization and other qualifications that need to be met before a vote can take place.
The Biden administration recently announced the supply of cluster munitions to Ukraine for the first time, aimed at bolstering Ukraine’s ammunition as it counterattacks against Russia. Biden acknowledged that the decision was difficult but necessary due to Ukraine’s ammunition shortages.
The upcoming NATO meeting will also address Sweden’s interest in joining the alliance, a move facing resistance from Turkey and Hungary. Biden expressed optimism about Sweden’s eventual admission, mentioning Turkey’s and Greece’s military modernization plans as potential factors in facilitating Sweden’s inclusion.
Regarding China, Biden expressed confidence in establishing a working relationship that benefits both the US and China. He cautioned China about the impact of its actions, such as the conflict in Ukraine, on its economy and investment from European and American corporations.
Biden briefly mentioned Israel, stating that Israeli President Isaac Herzog would soon visit the White House. He reiterated his belief in a two-state solution for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and criticized certain members of the Israeli cabinet for their views on settlements in the West Bank.
Joe Biden’s remarks on Ukraine’s NATO membership underscore the importance of resolving the conflict with Russia before considering its inclusion. While emphasizing continued support for Ukraine, Biden acknowledged the need for specific qualifications to be met. The NATO summit will also address Sweden’s aspirations to join the alliance, with Biden expressing optimism about its eventual admission. Biden’s comments on China highlighted the possibility of a working relationship, while his remarks on Israel reaffirmed his commitment to a two-state solution.
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Source: CNN
