NATO is set to commemorate its 75th anniversary of collective defense as tensions continue to rise due to Russia's ongoing war on Ukraine. The celebration will take place in Brussels, where the signing of the alliance's founding treaty in 1949 will be honored. The event will be attended by various foreign ministers, including Sweden's recent addition as NATO's 32nd ally.
Since its inception, NATO has expanded significantly, with its ranks nearly tripling over the years. The alliance's core principle, enshrined in Article 5 of the Washington Treaty, emphasizes that an attack on any member state will be met with a united response. This commitment to collective security has been a cornerstone of NATO's success.
While NATO has seen successes in various operations, such as interventions in former Yugoslavia and Macedonia, challenges remain. The alliance's involvement in Afghanistan, marked by a prolonged and costly mission, ended in a chaotic retreat in 2021. Additionally, NATO faces internal disagreements on issues like arming Ukraine and expanding membership.
Russia's aggression, exemplified by the invasion of Ukraine, has prompted NATO to bolster its defenses along its eastern borders. The alliance's unity has been tested, particularly during the tenure of former U.S. President Donald Trump, who questioned NATO's mutual defense commitments.
As NATO looks to the future, the question of Ukraine's potential membership looms. While the alliance remains open to Ukraine joining in the future, there is currently no consensus among members. Furthermore, internal divisions, notably from Hungary and Turkey, continue to challenge NATO's cohesion.
With NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg set to step down later this year, the alliance faces a period of transition. The selection of a new leader, with Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte as a frontrunner, will be crucial in navigating the complex geopolitical landscape.
