Can Ukraine Strengthen Atlanticism in Europe and North America?

What can Ukraine offer NATO today in terms of modern warfare experience and democratic values, and can its accession become a catalyst for a new impetus for Atlanticism?

Atlanticism has historically been associated with unity and cooperation between the countries of the transatlantic space, formed based on shared ideas of security, democracy, and economic development.

The term "Atlanticism" itself comes from the ideological framework that underlies the creation of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). This alliance was created as a response to the threats that arose during the Cold War, and its main goal was to ensure collective defense and stability in the world.

The main principles that unite NATO member countries are democracy, the rule of law, freedom of speech, a market economy, and mutual support in case of external threats. Atlanticism, as an ideology, guarantees these values, ensuring both military and political, economic, and cultural unity in the West.

However, in today's world, Atlanticism is under threat. One of the reasons for this crisis is the policy of the Donald Trump administration, which has called into question traditional approaches to security in NATO. Trump frequently criticized the alliance for not doing enough to fund collective defense and pushed for a review of financial commitments, causing controversy among members.

His rhetoric and actions have created an atmosphere of uncertainty, weakened faith in the power of collective defense, and undermined Atlanticism’s ideological foundation. At the same time, internal political divisions among Western partners, economic instability, and the rise of populist sentiment exacerbate the crisis, raising questions about whether Atlanticism can adapt to new geopolitical challenges.

Ukraine has always sought integration into the European security space, and NATO membership is a strategic and practical step for the country to ensure its own security. Since the beginning of the armed conflict with Russia, Ukraine has become a living example of resilience and commitment to democratic values.

By defending its independence, Ukraine demonstrates that its society can mobilize to defend freedom and human rights. This example is of utmost importance for the European community, as it confirms the importance of collective defense and joint efforts in the fight against aggression and authoritarianism.

It is also important to mention the idea of the Ukrainian president, according to which Ukrainian troops could become a kind of "substitute" for American forces in Europe, relieving traditional U.S. forces and strengthening the continent's defense capabilities. 

This proposal has generated considerable interest among Western partners, as it emphasizes Ukraine's potential to ensure the entire region’s stability.

Traditionally, NATO has upheld the principles that have become guidelines for all democratic countries: democracy, freedom, the rule of law, respect for human rights, and the principle of collective defense. In the war against Russian aggression, Ukraine demonstrates that these values are not empty words.

Despite heavy losses and numerous challenges, Ukrainians are defending their freedom, protecting democracy, and becoming a symbol of resistance to totalitarianism. Their struggle inspires neighboring countries and the European community, which sees it as a source of strength and faith in the future. 

Ukraine has become a kind of outpost of Western values in the region, demonstrating that commitment to democracy and the rule of law can be an extremely effective weapon against an aggressor.

What can Ukraine offer to Atlanticism?

• Modern combat experience. Ukraine has gained unique experience in modern warfare against hybrid threats and traditional aggression. This makes it possible to offer new approaches to training and organization of collective defense.
• Innovative technologies and tactics. The introduction of the latest defense technologies and modernization of military strategies can be transferred to NATO practice, which will help to increase the alliance's defense capabilities.
• Strategic alternative and “offloading” of US forces. Replacing some US troops with Ukrainian ones could reduce the burden on traditional allies and strengthen Europe's defense position.
• Filling Atlanticism with new and “living” content. Ukraine is not only fighting for its independence. Still, it is also laying the groundwork for a new approach to defending Western values, which could catalyze Atlanticism's revival in general.

Most importantly, when traditional "Western" institutions are losing much of their appeal, even in the countries where they originated, in Ukraine, they continue to be necessary to most citizens.

And NATO is one of them. Ukraine contains the potential for a revitalizing impulse that could revive collective security institutions that have long been in crisis. This is a chance for both Ukraine and NATO itself. Throwing away such chances is not only harmful but also downright dangerous.

Petro Oleshchuk, Expert at Kyiv-based United Ukraine Think Tank