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NATO Expert Urges Europe to Recognize Ukraine as a Key Security Partner
Gerlinde Nigus advocates for a re-assessment of Ukraine's position in European security during an interview with Ukrinform.
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Photo: Ukrinform UA
At a glance
- Ukraine must be viewed as a vital security partner, not just a recipient of aid.
- The country offers critical experience and innovations that benefit European security.
- NATO's past decisions regarding Ukraine's integration have strategic implications.
- Ukraine has unmatched battlefield experience against Russia, strengthening NATO.
- The potential collaboration with the US regarding drone threats showcases Ukraine's expertise.
Why it matters
Changing perceptions of Ukraine from a recipient to a key partner in security can foster stronger alliances in Europe. This recognition could lead to enhanced collaboration and sharing of valuable security insights, benefiting the entire region.
https://www.ukrinform.ua/rubric-world/4106405-potribno-pripiniti-baciti-v-ukraini-lise-prohaca-dopomogi-ekspertka-nato.html
Reassessing Ukraine's Role
On March 27, 2026, Gerlinde Nigus, former deputy director for defense and security cooperation at NATO, emphasized the need for European nations to rethink their view of Ukraine. In her interview with Ukrinform, she argued that Ukraine should not be regarded solely as an aid recipient but as a significant contributor to European security.
Key Contributions of Ukraine
Nigus highlighted that Ukraine brings valuable experiences, innovations, and resilience that can greatly benefit Europe. She pointed out a general lack of awareness in Europe about the considerable advantages Ukraine offers. "Europe must learn total defense from Ukraine," she remarked, emphasizing Ukraine's role in providing defense strategies and capabilities.
NATO's Strategic Errors
Nigus criticized NATO's past decisions, specifically the 2008 denial of Ukraine's Membership Action Plan (MAP), calling it a strategic mistake. She stated that this missed opportunity has created ongoing challenges for both Ukraine and Europe.
Unique Battlefield Experience
According to Nigus, Ukrainian forces possess extensive battlefield experience unrivaled by other European armies due to their ongoing conflict with Russia. This experience enhances Ukraine's significance within the NATO alliance.
She also briefly noted the implications of U.S. and Israeli operations against Iran, which could negatively affect Ukraine. However, she recognized a positive trend in regional nations seeking Ukraine's expertise in countering drone threats from Iran.
The Need for Integration
Nigus concluded by underscoring the necessity of integrating Ukraine into future European security frameworks, stating that current efforts are inadequate. She called for a paradigm shift to acknowledge Ukraine's critical role in European defense discussions.
Source: Ukrinform UA
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