Cooperation of Ukraine – Nato (1991–2023): From Partnership to Membership

The aim of the article is to analyze the current state of cooperation between Ukraine and NATO, identify key challenges and prospects, and elucidate the significance of security programs.The research methodology comprises the principles of historicism and objectivity, general scientific methods (induction and deduction, analysis, synthesis, generalization, abstraction, comparison, specification), special-historical methods (synchronic, the method of periodization; historical-chronological, systemic-structural, historical-typological, retrospective, statistical), and some other scientific methods related to humanitarian studies.Additionally, a systemic-disciplinary and pluralistic approach is applied to study the transformation of Ukraine-NATO relations during the researched period based on the comprehensive use of sources related to the common spatiotemporal localization and subject matter parameters.The scientific novelty of the constructive results obtained lies in the theoretical-conceptual justification of the proposed problem, a comprehensive study of Ukraine-NATO relations from 1991 to 2023, and the identification and analysis of approaches.This set of approaches will contribute to the successful implementation of the Ukrainian-NATO policy through the modernization of mechanisms for their implementation.Conclusions.Ukraine's NATO membership is a realistic but challenging goal that requires significant efforts from Ukraine and support and solidarity from NATO.The evolution of Ukrainian-NATO relations has a gradual character, influenced by historical-geopolitical factors and the need to adapt to the contemporary international order.Relations with NATO are based on several key documents, such as the Charter on a Distinctive Partnership (1997), the Declaration on the Enhancement of the Charter ( 2009), the Ukraine-NATO Action Plan ( 2002), and others.The NATO Representation in Ukraine, established in 2016, including the NATO Information and Documentation Center (1997) and the NATO Liaison Office (1999), contributes to the development of the partnership on the ground.It supports the process of reforming Ukraine's security and defense structures and maintains constant connections with Ukrainian authorities.The deepening of cooperation between Ukraine and NATO began with the introduction of the Intensified Dialogue, reflecting Ukraine's aspirations for membership and reform.The implementation of reforms is endorsed by the Alliance through Annual National Programs (ANP) since 2009, which will be replaced by a simplified system in 2023.Ukraine is fostering its relations with NATO through various institutions and forums, including the Partnership for Peace program and the North Atlantic Partnership Council.This path, defined by institutional and legal foundations, signifies an evolution from cooperation and strategic partnership to Euro-Atlantic integration, reflected in the Constitution of Ukraine.