NATO And Ukraine: How Have We Gotten Here From 1991?

BY: GAVIN E.L. HALL

NATO summit in Vilnius focuses on Ukraine's potential membership. Historical reasons explored for its delayed accession.

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On December 21, 1991, the Alma-Ata Protocols ended the Soviet Union, while the NACC initiated Ukraine's NATO relationship.

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NATO invited NACC members, Ukraine first, to join PfP in '94, fostering closer cooperation without NATO membership.

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Alongside these developing relationships with NATO, Ukraine inherited nuclear weapons following the Soviet Union's breakup.

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The Russian Federation, the United Kingdom, and the United States reaffirm non-aggression towards Ukraine's integrity.

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The process allowed Ukraine to join the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and receive security assurances.

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NATO recognizes Ukraine's unique importance and has a special relationship, emphasizing the indivisibility of security.

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The NATO-Ukraine Action Plan solidified relations, fostering closer cooperation in security interests of mutual concern.

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