NATO: no formal invitation to Ukraine for NATO membership

There is a "consensus" among NATO member countries that there will be no formal invitation to Ukraine to join the alliance at the next summit on 11-12 July. The Washington Post reports it citing some sources. Eastern European countries are pressing for concrete steps towards membership, including a commitment to a roadmap, while the United States and some Western European countries want more contained steps. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrives in London for a surprise visit, during which he will meet the British prime minister, ''his friend Rishi'' Sunak. Zelensky himself announces it on Twitter. ''London today. The UK is a leader when it comes to increasing our capabilities on the ground and in the air. This collaboration will continue today. I will meet my friend Rishi. We will conduct substantial negotiations face to face and in delegations'', wrote the Ukrainian president in a post.

Ukrainian President Zelensky is in Paris for another meeting with Macron who received him on February 8. Prime Minister Borne greeted him as he stepped off the plane at the Villacoublay base, southwest of Paris, ahead of a planned dinner with the head of the Elysée. "Paris. With each visit, Ukraine's defensive and offensive capabilities expand. Ties with Europe strengthen and pressure on Russia grows." Thus Zelensky on the web upon his arrival in Paris to discuss "bilateral relations".