NATO is moving closer to welcoming Ukraine into its ranks.

Leaders said on Tuesday that Ukraine can join the alliance when allies agree, and conditions are met. But this is not expected to happen anytime soon.

Since the war with Russia began, a select number of Americans – most with military backgrounds – have been traveling to Ukraine to help train and equip Ukrainian soldiers.

News 12 New Jersey spoke with New Jersey business owner and Marine veteran Lance Zaal, the founder of Ghosts of Liberty. Zaal just completed his fourth trip to Ukraine.

Zaal says he remains concerned about this conflict broadening to include NATO at some point. He says he does not believe Russia will end the war as long as President Vladimir Putin is in power.