Title: Former NATO Secretary General Proposes Ukraine’s Membership into the Alliance
Subtitle: Rasmusen Suggests Adjustments to Washington Treaty to Prevent Obstruction from Russia
Former NATO Secretary General, Anders Fogh Rasmussen, has put forward a proposal advocating for Ukraine’s membership in the alliance but with certain conditions. Rasmussen suggests that Article 5 of the Washington Treaty should not apply to the territories currently occupied by Russia, in an effort to prevent obstacles from Moscow.
Contrary to freezing the conflict, Rasmussen argues that this proposal showcases determination to safeguard Ukraine’s entry into NATO while reducing the risk of potential conflicts with Russia. He believes that the issue of Ukraine’s membership cannot be postponed any longer and that the time has come to take the next step and extend an invitation to Ukraine to join the alliance.
Supporters of Ukraine’s NATO membership, however, exercise caution over the potential implication of extending Article 5 to the entire Ukrainian territory. Doing so would require NATO member countries to actively defend a country at war. In response, Rasmussen suggests excluding the territories currently held by Russia from Article 5’s coverage as a means of reducing conflict risks between Russia and NATO.
Addressing concerns that this step would freeze the conflict by surrendering Ukrainian territory to Russia, Rasmussen assures that it would instead deter Russia from launching attacks within Ukrainian territory under NATO’s protection. According to him, a clear message to Russia would be sent regarding any violation of NATO territory, similar to establishing a no-fly zone for Russia over Ukrainian territory.
To support his proposal, Rasmussen highlights the precedent of West Germany joining NATO in 1955 when Article 5 only applied to its territory and not East Germany. He lists three main reasons why Ukraine should be offered membership. Firstly, Ukraine’s inclusion in NATO would act as a bulwark against Russia. Secondly, it recognizes the danger of neutrality in current times. Thirdly, it applauds Ukraine’s battle-hardened army, setting an example for other European states.
With his recommendation, Rasmussen suggests that NATO extends an invitation to Ukraine to join at the next summit in Washington. By doing so, he hopes to address the pressing issue of Ukraine’s NATO membership and reaffirm NATO’s commitment to preserving stability in the region amidst increasing tensions with Russia.
Note: This article remains neutral in presenting Rasmussen’s proposal and does not reflect the views of the author or the website ‘Hollywood Crap’.
“Infuriatingly humble tv expert. Friendly student. Travel fanatic. Bacon fan. Unable to type with boxing gloves on.”