"NATO's Security Victory: Live Updates on Ukraine-Russia Relations"

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy left the NATO summit without a formal invitation for membership but secured fresh pledges of weapons and ammunition to fight against Russia's invasion. The alliance also established the NATO-Ukraine Council to facilitate consultations and meetings. Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for the support and aid received, while emphasizing that a membership invitation would be ideal. Experts argue that inviting Ukraine now may hinder its incentive to strengthen democratic institutions and could escalate the conflict with Russia. Meanwhile, Russian drone strikes in Ukraine were seen as a response to the NATO summit, potentially targeting a crucial grain terminal.