NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg cautioned about the likelihood of a “long war in Ukraine” and expressed strong confidence in Ukraine eventually joining NATO. Stoltenberg emphasized the need for Western readiness for an extended conflict. President Zelensky’s upcoming visit to Washington to seek additional military aid was noted, with Congress considering an extra $24 billion in aid on top of the existing $113 billion commitment. Stoltenberg reiterated Ukraine’s certain NATO membership but stressed that Ukraine must meet membership criteria, including democratic values and resolving territorial disputes. However, admitting Ukraine while it’s at war could invoke NATO’s Article 5, which mandates collective defense, raising complex border dispute issues. Ukraine remains determined to restore its 1991 borders through the conflict.
