New Ukraine doctrine embraces NATO

Oleksander Turchynov, head of Ukraine's National Security Council, announced during a meeting on 9 April 2015 a new security doctrine which sees Russia as a 'long-standing factor' and views NATO membership as 'the only reliable external guarantee' of its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Mr Turchynov stated that European and Euro-Atlantic integration was now a priority for Ukraine's policies, and that the country would aim to coordinate its armed forces and intelligence services with those of the Western alliance.

Ukrainian president Petro Poroshenko had already signalled the intention of building closer ties with the Euro-Atlantic organisation in November 2014 [check the Related URL for further information].

• Primary Source

ESO: Background information: Ukraine to hold Nato vote when membership criteria are met http://www.europeansources.info/record/ukraine-to-hold-nato-vote-when-membership-criteria-are-met/

ESO: Background information: Russia and NATO trade accusations http://www.europeansources.info/record/russia-and-nato-trade-accusations/

ESO: Background information: Putin is ‘real danger’ to Baltics, EU officials warn http://www.europeansources.info/record/putin-is-real-danger-to-baltics-eu-officials-warn/

Reuters, 09.04.15: Ukraine sets sights on joining NATO http://www.reuters.com/article/2015/04/09/us-ukraine-crisis-nato-membership-idUSKBN0N01OW20150409

The Moscow Times, 09.04.15: Ukraine Determined to Join NATO http://www.themoscowtimes.com/news/article/ukraine-determined-to-join-nato/518872.html

Ukraine Today, 08.04.15: Ukraine to sign cooperation memorandum with NATO http://uatoday.tv/politics/ukraine-to-sign-cooperation-memorandum-with-nato-420322.html

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