Ukraine Seeks NATO Membership Amid Russian Threats

Amid ongoing Russian aggression, Ukraine has reiterated its demand for full NATO membership, emphasizing it as the sole security guarantee against further Russian threats. NATO, represented by Secretary-General Mark Rutte, has focused on increasing military aid to Ukraine rather than discussing membership, in light of the upcoming NATO foreign ministers' meeting in Brussels. Ukrainian officials criticized the Budapest Memorandum's past security assurances, highlighting the need for NATO integration. Concerns are heightened with President-elect Donald Trump's potential shift in US policy towards negotiating peace with Russia, which may not align with Ukraine's security goals. Despite Ukraine's push, key NATO members like the US and Germany remain cautious, fearing the alliance's direct involvement in the conflict with nuclear-armed Russia.