The United States believes that Ukraine's future lies in the North Atlantic Alliance, but the corresponding decision must be made by all 32 NATO members. This position was voiced by U.S. Department of Defense spokesman General Patrick Ryder, reports Ukrinform's correspondent.
"This is a decision for the NATO alliance, 32 countries. But, of course, what we are doing now – and you have heard previous statements – is creating a 'bridge' for Ukraine to join NATO," said the Pentagon representative in response to a request to comment on the U.S. Secretary of Defense's position on whether Ukraine should become a member of the Alliance.
Ryder emphasized that part of the efforts to support Ukraine on this path is working together to ensure the military capabilities of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and create operational compatibility for the day when Ukraine becomes a NATO member.
When asked if the U.S. is ready to support Ukraine's accession to NATO at the summit in Washington, Ryder noted that he would not want to get ahead of events. At the same time, the general stressed:
"We have been very clear that we see Ukraine's future in NATO."
