Belgium (Brussels Morning Newspaper), Confronted by a conflict in Ukraine that’s depleting both military strength and financial reserves, alongside delays in receiving US support due to Congressional disagreements, European leaders and top officials are cautioning that Europe needs to bolster its armed forces, prioritize advancements in technology, and accelerate weapons manufacturing.
On Thursday, the Secretary General of NATO cautioned member nations about the risks of allowing a divide to form between the United States and Europe, amid increasing apprehension regarding Washington’s dedication to its allies should Donald Trump resume the presidency.
NATO has successfully averted any military attacks against its member nations for 75 years. This achievement is attributed to the unwavering commitment of all NATO Allies to protect one another, as enshrined in the fundamental principle that an assault on any member state will provoke a collective response from the entire Alliance.
As long as we collectively uphold this commitment, we effectively deter any military aggression against any NATO member. Thus, NATO’s primary aim is to avert conflict, maintain peace, and shield its Allies from attack a mission we’ve successfully executed for decades due to our credible deterrence. Any insinuation that we might falter in our solidarity, fail to safeguard one another, undermines the security of all, heightening risks for everyone. Hence, it’s imperative that we consistently reaffirm, both in actions and words, our steadfast adherence to NATO’s pledge to safeguard and defend all member nations. Stoltenberg added
He mentioned the encouraging news is that NATO Allies are actively fulfilling this commitment. NATO possesses the necessary capabilities and determination to safeguard and uphold the security of all member nations. This readiness is precisely why there are no imminent threats against any NATO Ally. Since 2014, we have significantly bolstered our collective defense, boasting the strongest reinforcements in decades.
The catalyst for this proactive stance was President Putin’s unlawful annexation of Crimea. However, it was in 2014 that NATO Allies collectively recognized the evolving global landscape and the heightened threats it posed, prompting a decisive response from the Alliance. This response underscores NATO’s adaptability and resolve in addressing emerging challenges. NATO Secretary General added
With increased defense spending and record-high investments in defense capabilities across the Alliance, alongside the deployment of more forces in the Eastern part of NATO and enhanced readiness levels, coupled with substantial investments in modernized capabilities, NATO’s resilience has been significantly bolstered. He said in the press conference
He talks about the continued investment and adaptation within NATO, we are paramount to ensuring the continued safety of all member nations from potential attacks. This sentiment was echoed by NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, who emphasized the importance of maintaining the credibility of NATO’s deterrence. This entails not only investing in robust capabilities but also effectively communicating our resolve, as deterrence resides in the perceptions of our adversaries. It is crucial to eliminate any room for misinterpretation or miscalculation in Moscow regarding NATO’s readiness and commitment to defending its Allies. This proactive stance aims not to incite conflict but rather to prevent it, mirroring NATO’s successful track record of peacekeeping over 75 years.
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg emphasized the enduring role of NATO’s nuclear deterrent in providing vital security assurances to Alliance members over many years. This framework, governed by established command and control procedures and jointly practiced exercises, comprises US nuclear assets in Europe, complemented by contributions from other NATO Allies in terms of aircraft, infrastructure, and logistical support. The collective effort ensures the functionality, operational readiness, safety, security, and reliability of this nuclear deterrent, underscoring its effectiveness. Additionally, Stoltenberg highlighted the nuclear capabilities of two other NATO Allies, the United Kingdom and France, emphasizing the integral role they play within the Alliance’s nuclear deterrence strategy. Preserving the credibility of NATO’s nuclear deterrence infrastructure is imperative, requiring steadfast commitment from all member states.
Regarding ammunition, Stoltenberg stressed the importance of dual action. Firstly, there’s a need for immediate ammunition delivery, necessitating the utilization of existing stockpiles and exploring procurement options from non-NATO sources, a measure already undertaken by several Allies. This dual strategy ensures NATO’s continued capability to respond effectively to emerging security challenges.
We must be prepared to increase production capacity in the short term by maximizing output from existing factories through measures such as additional shifts. However, for sustained support, long-term investment in expanding production capacity is essential. Therefore, I commend not only Germany but also other Allies for their decisions to invest in scaling up production. This approach will ensure a steady flow of ammunition to support Ukraine while also replenishing our own depleted stocks.
The Ukraine Defense Contact Group, also known as the Ramstein format, has proven highly successful in mobilizing support from NATO Allies and partners. It’s noteworthy that 99% of military support to Ukraine originates from NATO Allies, including soon-to-be-full member Sweden.
Ongoing discussions within NATO forums, such as the NATO-Ukraine Defense Contact Group and upcoming meetings of Defense Ministers, focus on sustaining and optimizing support to Ukraine. While specifics cannot be divulged at this time, the overarching goal is to ensure robust and effective assistance to Ukraine.
The discovery of drone fragments in Moldova underscores the danger posed by the conflict in Ukraine and highlights the consequences of Russia’s aggressive actions against neighboring countries. NATO remains closely engaged with Moldova, supporting reforms and capacity building while respecting its neutrality. Moldova’s partnership with NATO is valued, and efforts to enhance this partnership are welcomed.
Iran persists in its destabilizing actions throughout the Middle East, evident in its support for various militia and terrorist groups. It’s imperative for Iran to curb the activities of its proxies. The recent attacks on US forces in countries like Jordan, Iraq, and Syria are unequivocally condemned.
NATO’s presence in Iraq, through our mission, aims to assist the Iraqis in building their capacity to prevent the resurgence of ISIS. We collaborate with Iraq across multiple fronts, including defense against airstrikes, which is crucial for both Iraq’s security and the safety of deployed forces.
Efforts to support Iraq encompass political decisions to provide weaponry, ammunition, maintenance, training, and financial backing, facilitated through various channels such as bilateral agreements, the NATO Comprehensive Assistance Package, and collaboration with the European Union. The collective contributions from NATO Allies, Canada, and the United States represent a remarkable example of transatlantic burden sharing, with European Allies and Canada providing significant military and economic assistance.
While the United States remains a vital contributor, it’s worth noting that European Allies and Canada, along with the US, collectively provide substantial support. Canada contributes training, equipment, and ammunition, while European Allies and the US offer similar assistance through diverse frameworks.
Additionally, NATO’s armed forces collaborate closely with civilian sectors to address emerging threats. Regular exercises and vigilant monitoring along NATO’s borders with Russia ensure swift and appropriate responses to any challenges posed along these borders.
Regarding lessons learned, there are numerous takeaways, particularly for NATO. The paramount lesson is the necessity of unity in the face of adversity. During the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, it was the collective response of European Allies, Canada, and the United States that proved pivotal.
It’s crucial to recognize the importance of a robust NATO for Europe’s security. The presence of US troops in Europe and America’s commitment to European defense are indispensable in deterring potential threats. Simultaneously, a strong NATO is advantageous for the United States, providing a unique network of over 30 allies and partners. This collective strength enhances America’s security and global influence.
Regarding defense spending, there has been a notable increase, with a record high observed last year. Currently, 18 Allies are meeting or surpassing the 2% GDP spending target, with more nearing this benchmark. This robust commitment to defense underscores strong support for NATO, particularly in the United States. It’s recognized that collective security enhances overall strength, a sentiment echoed both in Europe and the United States.
Moreover, with growing concerns about China’s economic and military prowess, maintaining NATO’s strength becomes even more imperative. Given that the United States accounts for 25% of the global GDP, NATO’s cohesion and readiness remain critical in navigating complex geopolitical challenges.
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