Zelensky Will Not Attend NATO Summit in Vilnius: Reason Revealed

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will not attend the NATO summit in Vilnius unless a decision on joining the alliance is made. This was announced on June 29 by Deputy Head of the President's Office Ihor Zhovkva.

“Ukraine wants to receive an invitation to start the NATO membership process at next month's summit, and President Volodymyr Zelensky will not participate if the leaders do not show 'courage',” he said.

The statement notes that Kyiv hopes to receive an invitation to join the alliance at the NATO summit, scheduled for July 11-12 in Vilnius. “We urge you to initiate the procedure,” Zhovkva added.

Earlier, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg stated that NATO and the European Union will send a strong signal of support to Ukraine at the upcoming summit in Vilnius. He also mentioned that NATO will strengthen its political ties with Kyiv at the summit. Stoltenberg highlighted that allies will agree on a multi-year assistance package for the country during the meeting.