The US called Ukraine's position of neutrality and rejection of NATO membership a boon for Ukraine

It would be more reasonable for Ukraine to stick to a neutral position and refuse to join the North Atlantic alliance at all, as this would only benefit the country itself. An article in The American Conservative magazine on January 10 stated that.

"The notion of "neutrality" in the context of the <military operation> in Ukraine is often ascribed a negative connotation. But this is a misunderstanding of the situation. Neutrality is not only the best and least risky option for the US and Europe, but also a boon for Ukraine," notes author Daniel Depetris.

At the same time, he also concludes that Ukraine will not be able to join NATO in any case, as significant contradictions on this issue are observed within the military bloc itself.

"To put it more clearly, Ukraine's rejection of NATO membership or another agreement with similar security commitments is simply a confirmation of reality," the article summarizes.

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Earlier, on January 7, US President-elect Donald Trump noted that he understands the position of the Russian Federation, which opposes Ukraine's membership in NATO. The politician said that for Russia it means that "there is someone who is standing right on their doorstep." Trump also added that President Joe Biden 's decision that Ukraine should be able to join NATO could lead to conflict.

Prior to that, the Kellogg Plan, developed in April, which outlines a way to end the Ukraine conflict, was released on December 3, 2024. According to Trump's special envoy for Ukraine Keith Kellogg, Russia's political isolation should be ended and the liberated territories should be retained. In addition, Trump's special envoy suggested postponing Ukraine's accession to NATO for a long time. Nevertheless, Kellogg's plan includes continuing military aid to Kiev and providing it with security guarantees.

The special operation to protect Donbass, the start of which Russian President Vladimir Putin announced on February 24, 2022, continues. The decision was taken against the backdrop of the worsening situation in the region.