Editorial | Still a need for Nato in a changing world
- No military alliance has lasted as long and with a focus on consultation and cooperation, it can chart a bright new future
Trump is the first US leader to question Nato’s purpose. Since the Soviet Union’s fall, it has expanded into eastern Europe and now has 29 members, increasing the burden of ensuring populations stay safe. The alliance has also widened its reach and added spreading liberal thinking and democracy to its remit, resulting in involvement in wars in Afghanistan, Bosnia, Kosovo and Libya. Such involvement was not always wise.
Nato Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg was mindful of the criticism when he gave an anniversary address to the US Congress, contending the alliance had been as good for Americans as Europeans. In his only mention of Trump, he said the president’s accusations that Europe was not paying its fair share of the budget had been heeded; many European powers have been significantly increasing their defence spending. He also urged Russia not to withdraw from a key nuclear treaty with the US on the grounds that “we do not want a new arms race”, a message that Trump also needs to follow as he has threatened a pull-out. Lawmakers applauded his views, but in the face of changed circumstances, the alliance also has to be more constructive and relevant by adapting and adjusting.
There is still every need for Nato and its resources. The threat of extremism remains rife and cyber threats are a growing global concern. At the core of Nato’s aims has to be maintaining peace and stability. No military alliance has lasted as long; with a focus on consultation and cooperation, it can chart a bright new future.