More Ukrainians prioritize their country joining NATO (46%) than the EU (22%), according to three surveys conducted by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology (KIIS) in 2024. NATO is a priority due to Ukrainians’ acute desire for reliable security guarantees. Overall, 90% of Ukrainians want Ukrainian membership in the EU, and 84% want to see Ukraine join NATO.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha stated that Ukraine considers NATO membership to the most effective guarantee of its security. He reiterated that Kyiv’s desire to join NATO is firm, the course for accession has long been enshrined in the Constitution, and an overwhelming majority of the population supports Ukraine’s membership in the Alliance.
In addition, Ukraine’s full membership is the cheapest option for NATO to ensure European security. Bilateral security agreements are part of Ukraine’s preparation for NATO membership and a tool for strengthening the country but cannot replace membership, Sybiha emphasized.