Security Guarantees for Ukraine: Until NATO Membership, Extending the Joint Expeditionary Force Is the Best Option

Abstract

There are no security "guarantees," but NATO membership is as close as it gets - and has long proven its effectiveness in deterring ­Russian aggression. It is thus the only real option for Ukraine - and for wider European security. Addressing the lack of political will to recognize this, especially in Washington and Berlin, means finding an interim solution that provides credible, collective security in the meantime and fosters more durable, fairly delivered European ­security in the long term.