Russia Demands NATO Revoke Ukraine Membership Promise Amid Ongoing Tensions

RURussian Federation|

Russia has called for NATO to annul its 2008 commitment to consider Ukraine's membership, intensifying its objections following recent talks in Saudi Arabia. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated that simply delaying Ukraine's accession to NATO is insufficient and insisted that the alliance must formally disband the promises made during the Bucharest summit. According to Lavrov, the increasing ties between NATO and Ukraine pose a significant threat to Russia's sovereignty and national interests.

The discussion took place during meetings involving U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, where both sides reportedly engaged in constructive dialogue. However, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova emphasized that Ukraine must abandon its NATO aspirations, asserting that this stance is crucial for de-escalation in the region.

Lavrov further dismissed proposals for NATO member forces to act as peacekeepers in Ukraine, labeling such initiatives as unacceptable interventions. The ongoing conflict has been shaped by Ukraine's aspirations for NATO membership, which Russia has vehemently opposed.

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