The decision of the Verkhovna Rada to define Euro-Atlantic integration as one of the main foreign policy priorities of the country aroused interest among Ukrainians, however, the country still has a long way to join NATO.

Corresponding opinion in the blog for "Radio Liberty" was expressed by journalist Vitaly Portnikov.

Portnikov noted that it is not even a question of diplomatic efforts or the government's implementation of reforms. He believes that the main work on the mistakes must be made by Ukrainian society.

"First of all, Ukrainian citizens must understand that NATO is not just an" umbrella "of security. It is first of all solidarity and mutual assistance. Ukrainian politicians operate in unusual conditions, when the majority of citizens support the country's accession to NATO, "Portnikov said..

However, according to him, this majority appeared only after the occupation by Russia of Crimea and part of Donbass.

"Maydan of 2014, his victims and victims of the war in the Donbass gave Ukrainians a chance to ensure the future of their descendants. Euro-Atlantic integration is one of these ways, "concluded Portnikov.

As reported by the "Observer", earlier Verkhovna Rada Chairman Andrey Parubiy said that most Ukrainians support Ukraine's accession to NATO.

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