Ukraine wants Ankara summit to recognize it as a NATO security contributor, not just an aid recipient
Ukraine actively participates in NATO war games as a red team and runs the Alliance's only joint center, while claiming a record number of members support its membership.
Ukraine has expanded its role within NATO by participating in the Alliance's war games as a "red team" — simulating adversary tactics — and operating the only joint center with NATO, the Cyber Defense Training and Education Center. These activities come as Kyiv seeks to convince allies that it is a security contributor, not merely an aid recipient.
At the upcoming Ankara summit, Ukraine is expected to officially request to be designated as a security contributor rather than just a recipient of assistance. Officials note that a record number of NATO member states now support Ukraine's membership, signaling a shift in attitudes toward the issue.
Ukrainian officials emphasize that the country already makes significant contributions to the Alliance's collective security by sharing expertise in countering hybrid threats and cyberattacks. This stance could strengthen Ukraine's case for an accelerated accession process.
