The United States does not want the North Atlantic Alliance to be perceived as an alliance that is constantly expanding.
This position is outlined in the U.S. National Security Strategy, published on the White House website, which outlines the vision for relations with NATO and Europe.
Context and the United States’ stance on NATO
“Our overarching policy toward Europe must prioritize ending the perception of NATO as an ever-expanding alliance and preventing that perception from becoming reality”
– U.S. National Security Strategy, published on the White House website
The document also notes that in the long term – over several decades – it is quite likely that some NATO allies will become predominantly non-European states.
“Therefore, the question remains open as to whether they will view their role in the world and their alliance with the United States in the same way as those who signed the NATO charter”
– U.S. National Security Strategy, published on the White House website
Moreover, the United States announces its desire to support restoring stability in Europe and to maintain strategic balance in its relations with Russia.
Regarding Ukraine, Alona Hetmanchuk, head of Ukraine’s Mission to NATO, stated that the only reason Ukraine would give up its ambition to become a member of the alliance could be the absence of NATO itself.
In summary, the American position emphasizes the importance of stable European security and a well-grounded approach to NATO expansion, and Ukraine’s membership prospects remain a question that partner countries are addressing in the context of the region’s overall security.