The NATO Parliamentary Assembly (NPA) convened in Montreal from 23 to 25 November 2024 for its 70th Annual Session, focusing on pressing security challenges and reinforcing the Alliance’s strategic priorities. Central to discussions was Ukraine’s defence against Russian aggression and its bid for NATO membership, alongside broader calls to bolster collective deterrence and defence.
Support for Ukraine’s Sovereignty and NATO Membership
In a landmark resolution adopted on 25 November, NPA members reaffirmed their backing for Ukraine’s right to self-defence, including the right to target legitimate military objectives within Russia under Article 51 of the UN Charter. The resolution further underscored NATO’s commitment to supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity with enhanced military aid.
The Assembly also called for accelerating Ukraine’s accession to NATO, urging member states to extend an invitation as soon as possible. This builds on NATO’s July 2024 affirmation of Ukraine’s “irreversible path” toward Euro-Atlantic integration. Kyiv’s application, first submitted in September 2022, remains a focal point of ongoing discussions within the Alliance.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, addressing the Assembly via video message, reiterated NATO’s unwavering support for Ukraine. Rutte described Ukraine’s fight as pivotal for Euro-Atlantic security and called on allies to increase defence spending and deliver critical military assistance to Kyiv, including advanced air defence systems, long-range precision weapons, and multirole combat aircraft.
Acting Deputy Secretary General Boris Ruge, speaking in person in Montreal, echoed these sentiments and engaged with parliamentarians during a plenary session. Ruge emphasised the importance of sustaining robust defence industrial production to meet Ukraine’s needs and safeguard the Alliance’s long-term security.
Enhanced Military and Economic Measures
The resolution adopted by the NPA highlighted the urgent need for military and economic measures to counter Russian aggression:
- Bolstering Ukraine’s Defence Capabilities
Delegates urged timely delivery of key weaponry to Ukraine, including medium-range missiles and high-precision systems. These efforts aim to enhance Kyiv’s ability to deter future threats and reclaim its territories. - Stricter Sanctions on Russia and Its Allies
The Assembly called for tightening sanctions on Russia and North Korea, citing Pyongyang’s growing military support for Moscow. It also recommended employing diplomatic and economic levers to discourage China from aiding Russia. - Accountability for War Crimes
Delegates stressed the necessity of international legal mechanisms to hold Russian officials accountable for crimes committed during the war, including war crimes and the crime of aggression.
Reinforcing NATO’s Deterrence and Defence
Discussions at the session also centred on strengthening NATO’s collective security in an increasingly competitive and dangerous global environment. Rutte and Ruge both highlighted the need for allies to commit more resources to defence, arguing that increased spending is key to reducing the likelihood of future conflicts.
Ruge, who also attended the Halifax International Security Forum during his visit to Canada, underscored the importance of transatlantic unity in addressing emerging threats. He held bilateral meetings with key stakeholders, including Ruslan Stefanchuk, Speaker of Ukraine’s Parliament, and members of the US Congress, to build consensus on ramping up defence production and ensuring consistent support for Ukraine.
A Unified Strategy for Euro-Atlantic Security
The resolution passed in Montreal reflects NATO’s focus on maintaining a unified strategy to deter Russian aggression and address wider geopolitical challenges. The NPA urged the Alliance to craft a cohesive approach ahead of its next summit in the Netherlands, with specific emphasis on enforcing sanctions, reducing Russia’s capacity for war, and reinforcing NATO’s presence on its eastern flank.
Ukraine at the Forefront of NATO’s Agenda
The Assembly’s discussions and resolution reinforce Ukraine’s central role in NATO’s future strategy. The “nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine” principle, repeatedly emphasised in the resolution, highlights Kyiv’s indispensable role in shaping outcomes related to the conflict.
By endorsing Ukraine’s right to self-defence, advocating for expedited NATO membership, and calling for increased collective defence spending, the NATO Parliamentary Assembly demonstrated its commitment to safeguarding Euro-Atlantic security. As the Alliance adapts to evolving threats, its support for Ukraine remains a cornerstone of its broader strategy for peace and stability.
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