Erdogan advocates for Ukraine's NATO membership and extended grain export deal

Turkish President Erdogan stated that Ukraine deserves to be a member of NATO, a sentiment that was met with caution by President Biden, who called discussions premature. Biden emphasized the need for Ukraine to meet certain qualifications, including democratization, before considering membership. The upcoming NATO summit in Lithuania is expected to address Ukraine's bid for membership, as well as an application from Sweden. Spanish Prime Minister Sánchez proposed the creation of a Ukraine-NATO Defense Council to provide aid until Ukraine can become a full member. The issue of Ukraine's NATO membership remains unanswered due to the potential for open war with Russia.