White House keeps doors ‘open’ for Ukraine to join NATO
Amid the recent aggravating tensions with Russia, the White House on Thursday stated that it’s keeping the door ‘open’ for Ukraine to join NATO.
President Joe Biden is planning to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin next month during his first trip abroad after joining office. This meet also comes after the recent act of Russia allegedly disbursing troops near Ukraine.
According to NATO’s policy, NATO members are obligated to collective defense, which means that the US would be bound by a treaty to confront Russia on Ukraine’s behalf.
White House Deputy Press Secretary, Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters aboard Air Force One, “The Biden administration is committed to ensuring that NATO’s door remains open to aspirants when they are ready and able to meet the commitments and obligations of membership and contribute to security in the Euro-Atlantic area,”.
He added, “The United States supports Ukraine’s effort to advance rule of law reforms and economic growth and its border — and its border fight against Russian aggression.”
In 2014, Russia annexed Crimea, which is internationally recognized as part of Ukraine. Russia is also accused of supporting a pair of divisive republics in eastern Ukraine.
