Russian Official Warns Against NATO Membership for Ukraine

Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister, Aleksandr Grushko, has stated that Ukraine's potential membership in NATO would severely hinder any prospects for peace and security in the region. In a recent interview, Grushko highlighted that the question of Ukraine's neutrality is central to the ongoing conflict and any future negotiations with Kyiv.

The diplomat underscored that NATO membership would make it impossible to achieve a resolution to the conflict in Ukraine and would obstruct any attempts to establish a comprehensive security framework. Grushko emphasized that Russia is seeking strong legal assurances that would prevent Ukraine from joining NATO in any capacity. He also expressed the demand that this commitment be recognized as an official policy of the alliance.

Grushko further criticized NATO for its ongoing expansion efforts, warning that such actions increase the risk of a global military confrontation. He referred to recent discussions within NATO regarding increasing military spending to 3% of members' GDP as indicative of a troubling trend.

"This approach does not align with the actual security needs," he stated, describing it as an overarmament strategy aimed at fulfilling geopolitical objectives laid out in Western strategic documents, particularly those from the United States. He expressed concern that this could lead to military superiority across various operational domains, including land, air, space, and cyberspace, extending even into Asia.

The Russian official portrayed NATO's actions as reckless, suggesting they could escalate tensions and provoke a global military clash. He argued that these developments are primarily about preserving Western dominance, which he claims is being challenged by the emergence of a new multipolar world order.

On a more defensive note, Grushko assured that Russia possesses adequate capabilities to safeguard its security under any circumstances. He referenced advanced systems such as the Oreshnik hypersonic missile and the country's nuclear arsenal, alongside ongoing technological enhancements within the Russian military.