Biden: Ukraine must undergo ‘democratization’ before joining NATO.

President Biden: Ukraine Not Ready for NATO Membership

In an engaging interview with CNN’s Fareed Zakaria, President Joe Biden expressed his belief that Ukraine is not yet prepared to join NATO. He emphasized the importance of Ukraine first focusing on ending the ongoing war with Russia.

President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine has been advocating for his country’s inclusion as a member state.

Biden acknowledged that Russian President Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine was an attempt to “break NATO.” He highlighted the lack of unanimity within NATO regarding Ukraine’s membership, particularly during a time of war.

“If the war is going on, then we’re all in war,” Biden stated. “You know, we’re at war with Russia, if that were the case. So I think we have to lay out a path, for the rational path for Russia, for, excuse me, for Ukraine to be able to qualify to get into NATO.”

While acknowledging that the process would take time, Biden assured Zelensky that the United States would provide Ukraine with the necessary weapons for self-defense.

Biden emphasized the need for further qualifications, including democratization, before considering a vote on Ukraine’s NATO membership.

WATCH:

EXCLUSIVE: Biden says Ukraine is not yet ready for NATO membership, saying the war with Russia must end before the alliance can consider adding Kyiv to its ranks. https://t.co/iNx84Zc7r4 pic.twitter.com/z0Ejf6SZlU

— CNN (@CNN) July 9, 2023

President Biden’s remarks coincide with Senator Lindsey Graham’s recent tweet, where he expressed his efforts to pass a resolution urging Ukraine’s admission into NATO with bipartisan support.

Senator Graham stated:

“The best way to prevent future wars and promote peace is to create security guarantees that make aggressor nations think twice before starting wars. Ukrainian NATO membership is vital to the future security of Europe and the world. I believe there is an overwhelming majority of Senators supporting this proposition.”

Related: Lindsey Graham Blasted By Republicans Over Plan ‘Trying To Start World War 3’

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