Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said on Monday that NATO members agreed to allow his country to skip a step in its path to joining the alliance.
"Following intensive talks, NATO allies have reached consensus on removing MAP [membership action plan] from Ukraine's path to membership. I welcome this long-awaited decision that shortens our path to NATO. It is also the best moment to offer clarity on the invitation to Ukraine to become member," Kuleba tweeted. According to NATO, the membership action plan is a program of "advice, assistance and practical support tailored to the individual needs of countries wishing to join the alliance."
NATO allies have insisted that Ukraine will not be able to join the alliance before its war with Russia ends and United States President Joe Biden stressed Kiev must also fulfill other criteria such as democratization.
