Three key priorities for Ukraine's NATO membership outlined by Zelensky: what lies ahead.

Support for Ukraine's NATO accession

According to Espreso.tv: During a meeting with leaders from Nordic and Baltic nations on June 9, 2023, Volodymyr Zelensky voiced his backing for Ukraine's entry into NATO and laid out the main areas of focus for collaboration. The discussion took place at the NB-8 summit in Tallinn, held just before the EU and NATO summits.

Zelensky highlighted three core priorities for advancing cooperation:

• stepping up diplomatic efforts,
• strengthening air defense systems,
• deepening collaboration with allied partners.

He also urged the global community to maintain sanctions against Russia, stressing the need to stand by Ukraine in its ongoing struggle.

Solidarity from the NB-8 nations

The leaders of the NB-8 countries expressed their support for Ukraine's NATO membership. Volodymyr Zelensky stated that

“Europe cannot defend itself without Ukraine”

“Ukraine belongs in the EU and NATO”

Zelensky recalled his statement from February 2025, where he said that if Ukraine does not join NATO, 'they will build NATO on their own territory'. These words underscore the critical importance for Ukraine of integrating into European and transatlantic security frameworks.

This meeting signals a renewed push by Ukraine to integrate into European security structures, a vital step amid ongoing Russian aggression. The backing from Nordic and Baltic countries reflects growing unity on security and defense matters, which could bolster Ukraine's standing on the international stage.