The United States of America has expressed its readiness to discuss with Russia the issue of NATO’s non-expansion to the east. This position was articulated by the U.S. Special Representative for Ukraine and Russia, Keith Kellogg, in an interview with NBC News.
This is reported by Kyiv24
Assessment of Russia’s Security Interests and the U.S. Position
Kellogg emphasized that the topic of NATO expansion traditionally raises concerns in the Russian Federation, and Moscow consistently brings up this issue. According to him, Russia expresses concern not only about Ukraine but also about Georgia and Moldova. Washington acknowledges these security interests and is open to dialogue about a possible halt to the alliance’s expansion towards Russian borders.
“This is a question that Russia will always raise. They are not only talking about Ukraine. They mention Georgia and Moldova as well. And we say: fine, we can discuss halting NATO’s expansion to your border. This is their security interest,” Kellogg said.
Prospects for Ukraine’s NATO Membership
Kellogg also noted that currently, the issue of Ukraine’s NATO membership is not on the U.S. agenda. He added that this position is shared by four other member countries of the Alliance. A unanimous decision from all 32 NATO member countries is required for Ukraine’s membership.
At the same time, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, following the Ukraine-NATO Council meeting that took place in April, reaffirmed the Alliance’s unwavering support for Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression. He emphasized the importance of Ukraine being in the strongest possible position to defend its interests.
Rutte also highlighted that Russia continues to be the greatest threat to the security of NATO member countries.