The NATO Secretary General named four countries that are blocking Ukraine's accession to the Alliance

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated during a speech at the Ronald Reagan Institute in the United States that several member states are currently holding up Ukraine’s accession to the North Atlantic Alliance. Among the countries taking a cautious stance, he specifically named Germany, Slovakia, Hungary, and the United States. According to

According to Rutte, despite agreements on Ukraine’s “irreversible path,” the issue of membership is not currently on the agenda. 

The Alliance’s leader does not expect this issue to be resolved politically at the collective level in the short term. At the same time, he emphasized the importance of Ukraine’s experience for NATO’s defense plans, particularly in the use of drones and anti-drone technologies. Rutte called Ukrainians “masters” in this field and noted President Zelenskyy’s diplomatic efforts in the Middle East, where Ukraine is helping to counter threats from Iranian drones.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated that the issue of Ukraine’s membership in the Alliance will not be resolved in the near future. Even despite active negotiations and Ukraine’s aspirations, a quick accession should not be expected. 

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated that the exchange of views with U.S. President Donald Trump was very open and direct.