Ukraine can be offered NATO alternatives — Foreign Affairs expert

A political scientist pointed out that Ukraine’s NATO membership would require the approval of all 32 member states - a process that could take months, even in the best-case scenario, and would be contingent on Ukraine implementing numerous reforms unrelated to the ongoing war.

Instead, the article suggests alternative approaches for securing Ukraine. Throughout history, the U.S. has provided bilateral security commitments to allies and partners in post-conflict situations,namely to South Korea after the Korean War and Israel following the 1973 Yom Kippur War.

“These approaches, having fostered long periods of relative stability and peace, could serve as models for future negotiations with Ukraine,” Charap writes.

Another form of security guarantee could come through Ukraine’s potential EU membership. Under EU mutual assistance provisions, member states are obligated to provide aid and support to a country victimized by armed aggression, using all available means.

Charap stressed the importance of arming Ukraine to ensure lasting peace.

“If Kyiv is confident in its security guarantees, it can focus on economic recovery and democracy rather than becoming a fortress state,” he wrote.

Additionally, Charap highlighted the need for sustained consequences for Russian aggression to deter its future invasions. The West could maintain certain sanctions and export controls as long-term measures — or until Russia fully withdraws from Ukraine.

While Vladimir Putin may declare victory once active combat ends, Charap argues that the world must not perceive Russia as having escaped accountability for its actions.

In November, The New York Times, citing sources, reported that Ukraine prioritizes security guarantees over reclaiming territories occupied by Russia, despite public denials of territorial concessions.

Polish outlet Rzeczpospolita outlined three potential approaches to providing security guarantees for Ukraine during peace negotiations.

However, Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a statement marking the 30th anniversary of the Budapest Memorandum, reiterated its rejection of any alternatives to NATO membership, calling the memorandum a “bitter lesson” for the country.