Ukraine is a sovereign republic that has been fighting Russian aggression against its territorial integrity and democratic ideals since 2014. Russia poses a severe threat to Ukraine's security and stability, as seen by the ongoing conflict in eastern Ukraine, the unlawful annexation of Crimea, and the current military buildup near the border. Ukraine has consistently voiced its desire to join NATO, a military alliance of 30 countries that share the principles of democracy, individual liberty, and the rule of law.

NATO, on the other hand, has been hesitant to provide Ukraine with a clear membership perspective, claiming a variety of political, technical, and strategic concerns. Ukraine should be permitted to join NATO for three primary reasons: it will increase Ukraine's security and sovereignty, NATO's credibility and deterrence, and promote peace and stability in Europe.

NATO membership will increase Ukraine's security and sovereignty. Ukraine has been a NATO member since 1994, contributing to NATO missions and operations in Afghanistan, Iraq, Kosovo, and beyond. Ukraine has also implemented substantial changes in the defense and security sectors, including NATO standards adoption, increased defense expenditures, anti-corruption efforts, and improved civil-military relations. However, these measures have not been sufficient to safeguard Ukraine from Russian assault, which has led to nearly 13,000 deaths, 1.5 million displaced persons, and the capture of 7% of Ukrainian territory. By joining NATO, Ukraine would gain access to the NATO treaty's collective defense clause, which specifies that an assault on one ally is an attack on all. This would provide Ukraine with credible security assurance while also discouraging further Russian aggression.

Allowing Ukraine to join NATO will, once again, improve NATO's credibility and deterrence. NATO was established in 1949 as a defense alliance in response to the Soviet menace in Europe. Since the conclusion of the Cold War, NATO's membership and purpose have grown to face new threats like terrorism, cyberattacks, and hybrid warfare. NATO has also been chastised for its lack of coherence, relevance, and efficacy in dealing with growing challenges. By admitting Ukraine into the alliance, NATO would demonstrate its dedication to its core values and principles as well as its solidarity with allies who share the same vision of a free and secure Europe. Furthermore, by admitting Ukraine, NATO would send a strong message to Russia that its aggressive actions would not be allowed or rewarded. This would strengthen NATO's deterrent posture and prevent further intensification of the conflict.

Promoting Ukraine's inclusion in NATO will help to maintain European peace and stability. Europe is confronted with numerous challenges that necessitate collaboration and dialogue among all parties. The COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, migration, energy security, human rights, and democracy are among them. However, these challenges cannot be effectively addressed unless the situation in Ukraine is resolved, which is Europe's most serious security dilemma since the Balkan wars.

By backing Ukraine's accession to NATO, the international community would create an incentive for Russia to engage in meaningful negotiations and follow international law. This would prepare the way for a peaceful end to the conflict based on the Minsk agreements, which call for a ceasefire, the removal of heavy weaponry, the restoration of Ukrainian authority over its border, decentralization of power, and the respect of minority rights. By resolving the war in Ukraine, Europe would offer opportunities for cooperation and debate on other matters of mutual interest.

Ukraine's admission to NATO is neither a provocation nor a danger to anyone; it is the genuine ambition of a sovereign country seeking to be part of a community of values and interests. It is also a strategic opportunity for NATO to reaffirm its obligation as a defender of freedom and democratic principles in the face of aggression and authoritarianism. At the forthcoming NATO summit, NATO leaders should recognize Ukraine's progress and potential and offer it a clear path to membership. It's time to make history together.