Zelensky joins a new NATO–Ukraine Council in Vilnius
The summit created a closer political channel while leaving the timing of membership unresolved.
Volodymyr Zelensky joined allied leaders for the first meeting of the NATO–Ukraine Council on 12 July 2023. The summit in Vilnius combined support for Ukraine with decisions on the alliance’s own defence. Allies approved regional defence plans and reaffirmed a minimum annual defence spending commitment of 2% of GDP.
Assistance without an accession date
The council strengthened consultation with Kyiv without resolving the timing of NATO membership. Allies paired support for Ukraine with decisions on their own defence planning and spending. Military production remained central to that programme: supplying equipment required factories, procurement and supply chains capable of meeting political commitments.
Sources & verification
Sources consulted on 30 September 2026. Event dates are stated above.
