NATO at 70: Why NATO and the EU must work hand in hand
Former NATO Secretary-General and ELN member, Anders Fogh Rasmussen argues that the EU and NATO must work more closely together – as partners, not rivals.
As part of a special anniversary series, the European Leadership Network publishes the views of its senior network members with high-office experience in NATO, including former Secretary-Generals, on the shape and future of the Alliance at 70.
Former NATO Secretary-General and ELN member, Anders Fogh Rasmussen argues that the EU and NATO must work more closely together – as partners, not rivals.
Former NATO Assistant Secretary-General for Defence Policy and Planning and ELN Member, (ret.) Lieutenant General Heinrich Brauss, reflects on Alliance readiness in NATO’s 70th year.
Former NATO Secretary-General and ELN Member, Lord Robertson of Port Ellen reflects on the developments and future of the alliance in its anniversary year.
NATO needs to relaunch its sense of purpose and direction. The leaders summit in London next week should be used to initiate work on a new Strategic Concept that would focus on the Alliance’s future.
In two weeks time leaders will meet in London for NATO’s 70th anniversary summit. This is an opportunity for NATO to position itself as a regional alliance of democracies in a mostly illiberal environment.
There is a growing reliance on high-readiness agile forces by Russian and Western militaries, but more thought needs to be given to their potential risks.
The Kremlin’s attempt to prevent North Macedonia joining NATO created some difficulties but proved to be rather clumsy and damaging to Russia’s own interests.
Contrary to criticism surrounding an increased number of US forces and related infrastructure in Poland, the latest agreement will strengthen deterrence on NATO’s eastern flank in line with NATO policies.
Faced with transatlantic rifts, Allies should concentrate not on grand designs but rather on implementing the Wales agenda and strengthening Euro-Atlantic security from the bottom-up.