Rubio says Ukraine's NATO bid is off-table while U.S. pushes for war resolution
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio told reporters in Iceland that Ukraine’s accession to NATO is not being considered as Washington concentrates on ending the conflict with Russia.
At a news briefing in Iceland, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Ukraine’s NATO membership is not on the agenda while the United States works to bring the Russia-Ukraine war to a close. He declined to give a positive or negative answer, stressing that a consensus on accession must be reached after the conflict is resolved. Rubio described one outlet U.S. role as seeking a constructive contribution to peace.
He also described Iceland as a critical hub for countering Russian and Chinese threats in the High North, emphasizing that military deterrence is the best way to prevent further violence. The visit is the first stop of a four-day European tour that will also include Greece and Portugal for broader security talks.
Why it matters
The statement signals that NATO expansion for Ukraine is delayed, affecting the war’s diplomatic landscape and regional security calculations.
How this story developed
- Oct 1 U.S. Secretary of State Rubio to tour Iceland, Greece and Portugal next week
- Oct 5 Rubio praised Ambassador Kimberly Guilfoyle for her role in advancing U.S. energy initiatives in Greece.
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