There are two ways of using the NATO membership question in negotiations with Russia: soft-line and hardline. Both aim at a deal for peace in Ukraine, but on different terms; one would refuse Ukraine membership in return for a deal, the other would not grant membership unless Russia agreed to a good enough deal. The former would need a compromise formulation, to avoid alienation of Ukrainians and help ensure compliance, while the latter is simply unlikely to materialize given recent hostility. …read more
Source: Atlantic Community