Shmyhal reminded that Ukraine officially applied for NATO membership in September 2022.
“Our army works according to NATO standards," PM added.
"We have carried out all the necessary reforms, and now we are one step away from an invitation."
When asked whether Ukraine would welcome additional troops from NATO countries, he noted that reinforcements would certainly help push back Russians.
However, according to him, Ukraine is currently asking its international partners for military equipment only.
“If the time comes, we will be absolutely grateful and happy (to recive reinforcements),” Shmyhal added.
NATO summit in Washington
The 75th anniversary summit of NATO leaders will take place on July 9-11, in Washington, DC.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in January that he hopes for two decisions at the summit: transfer of new air defense systems and concrete steps toward Ukraine's membership in Alliance.
According to Zelenskyy, Ukraine will be able to join NATO only after winning war against Russia.
On July 11-12, 2023, a NATO summit was held in Vilnius, attended by leaders of 31 NATO members, delegations from Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, Australia, Ukraine, and Sweden.
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said that Ukraine would become a member of Alliance without a MAP and would receive an invitation when allies agree and “conditions are met.”