NATO members have expressed their strong support for Ukraine’s future membership, committing to an “irreversible path” and increased aid.

Although a formal timeline for Ukraine’s entry into the military alliance wasn’t set during the Washington DC summit, NATO’s 32 members affirmed their “unwavering” support for Ukraine’s defense efforts. They also announced greater integration with Ukraine’s military and pledged €40bn ($43.3bn, £33.7bn) in aid for the upcoming year, including F-16 fighter jets and air defense assistance. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg emphasized, “Support to Ukraine is not charity – it is in our own security interest.”

The summit primarily focused on the ongoing invasion of Ukraine, with a declaration from all members identifying Russia as the “most significant and direct threat” to security. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken confirmed the transfer of US-built F-16 jets from Denmark and the Netherlands to Ukraine, marking the first time Kyiv will receive such advanced aircraft. Blinken stated the jets would be operational “this summer.”

NATO members also agreed to establish a new unit to coordinate military aid and training for the Ukrainian army, further strengthening ties between the alliance and Ukraine. The joint statement indicated that these initiatives, along with individual member aid commitments, serve as a “bridge to Ukraine’s membership in NATO.” It acknowledged Ukraine’s “concrete progress” in democratic, economic, and security reforms but noted that a formal membership invitation would only be extended once “conditions are met.”

The statement concluded, “As Ukraine continues this vital work, we will continue to support it on its irreversible path to full Euro-Atlantic integration, including NATO membership.”