US President Joe Biden and Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed a decade-long bilateral security agreement on Thursday. The agreement, inked during the sidelines of the 50th G7 summit in Italy, seeks to ensure ongoing US support for Ukraine, regardless of the outcome of the November election, including the potential reelection of former President Donald Trump. But what exactly does the deal entail? Let’s find out.
US, Ukraine’s 10-year agreement: What does it say?
The agreement essentially states that the US can make its military and training aid available to Ukraine in their need of the hour. However, it does not compel or commit the US to send troops to defend Ukraine if it’s attacked. For example, if Ukraine faces an armed attack or a threat of one, high-ranking officials from the US and Ukraine will meet within 24 hours to discuss how to respond and figure out what extra defense support Ukraine might need. This agreement reaffirms the US’ backing for Ukraine to defend its land and borders, especially with Russia stepping up its pressure on Ukraine’s eastern side. However, the agreement doesn’t force the US to send troops to defend Ukraine if it’s attacked.
The US further assured in the agreement that Ukraine’s destiny lies within the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), reiterating unwavering backing for the declaration made by Allies during the 2023 Vilnius Summit, affirming their readiness to extend an invitation to Ukraine to join the Alliance when mutually agreed conditions are fulfilled. It highlighted the significance of Ukraine’s further integration into the Euro-Atlantic community and emphasised the pivotal role of reform in bolstering and fortifying Ukraine’s defense, economic well-being, and recovery efforts.
As per the agreement, either party has the right to end it by sending a written notice through diplomatic channels to the other party, indicating its intention to terminate the Agreement. The termination will be effective six months after the date of such notification.
While one party has the option to terminate this Agreement, any supplementary agreements or arrangements made between the parties, in line with the terms of this Agreement, will remain valid according to their terms, unless otherwise stated in the specific terms of the respective supplementary agreement or arrangement.
Both US and Ukraine have acknowledged that this agreement serves as a stepping stone towards Ukraine’s eventual membership in the NATO Alliance.