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Context: Ukraine's pursuit of NATO membership has been cited as a key factor in Russia invading the former Soviet territory.

What is NATO?

• The North Atlantic Treaty Organization is a military alliance created in 1949.
• Aim: to provide collective security against Soviet expansionism and to encourage European political integration in the aftermath of World War II.
• It serves as a collective security system, wherein its member states agree to mutually defend any attack on a member party.
• Membership: There are 30 countries that are currently part of NATO. Two countries in North America and 28 European countries, including several former Soviet nations.

What does it take to become a member of the alliance?

• It employs an "open door policy" for aspiring members.
• Any European country can become a member of the Alliance at the invitation of the North Atlantic Council.
• Aspiring nations have to meet certain political, economic, and military standards to join. That includes
  • New members must uphold democracy, including tolerating diversity
  • New members must be making progress toward a market economy
  • Their military forces must be under firm civilian control
  • They must be good neighbors and respect sovereignty outside their borders
  • They must be working toward compatibility with NATO forces

https://www.businessinsider.in/politics/world/news/why-isnt-ukraine-already-in-nato-heres-what-it-takes-to-join-the-30-country-alliance/articleshow/89915085.cms

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