Ukraine’s accession to the European Union would be the best security guarantee for it, while NATO membership would strengthen the security of the entire Alliance and serve as an important deterrent to Russia.
Swedish Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard said this at a press conference following the Coalition of the Willing summit held in Kyiv, according to a Ukrinform correspondent.
According to the Swedish foreign minister, Ukraine’s development over the past four and a half years has been extraordinary. “We have seen Ukraine become a security provider for all of us,” she said. The diplomat noted that this was particularly evident during the armed conflict in Iran, when Ukraine generously shared its experience with the Gulf countries.
“Now, two countries in our region have the most advanced knowledge of how to wage war. And one of them is our friend. And we really need Ukraine on our side, because Ukraine provides security not only for itself but for all of Europe,” Malmer Stenergard said.
In this context, she added that Ukraine’s EU membership would be its best security guarantee.
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“But I am also convinced that Ukraine’s membership in NATO would mean greater security for the rest of the NATO countries and significant deterrence of Russia. And Sweden will continue to do everything to make this happen,” the minister assured.
As previously reported by Ukrinform, Ukrainian Navy Commander Vice Admiral Oleksii Neizhpapa discussed strengthening the Navy’s capabilities with his Swedish counterpart.
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