From ambivalence to strategic partnership? Ukraine-NATO relations under Russian pressure
Date
2026
Authors
Lloyd, Katelynn
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Victoria
Abstract
Since the full-scale invasion launched by Russia into Ukraine in February 2022 discussion of Ukrainian relations with Western organizations such as the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) have been at the forefront of international politics. However, very limited direction for how these relations could evolve in the future has been established.
This project seeks to determine to what extent Western policies have been implemented with Ukrainian interests at the forefront or if they have largely been proposed in response to Russian aggression. Through an analysis of key events spanning from Ukrainian independence in 1991 to the present day, this project will explore how relations between Ukraine and NATO have developed and been shaped by Russia as a mediating force. Ultimately, it concludes that Russia has always been an overbearing force in Ukraine-NATO relations and suggests that the development of future relations would rely heavily on removing the Russian factor.
Description
Keywords
Ukraine, North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), Russia, NATO membership, Ukraine war, Jamie Cassels Undergraduate Research Awards (JCURA)