Friday, July 1 2016 05:25

 Artur Kacprzyk, an analyst at the Polish Institute of International Affairs, says in an online interview with ArmInfo that enhancement of NATO presence on its Eastern flank is a part of further response to Russian aggression against Ukraine and hostile stance towards the Alliance.

"Russia continues to build up its forces along NATO's borders and engages in various kinds of aggressive behavior, such as violations of Allied airspace or buzzing of US destroyer Donald Cook in the Baltic sea by Russian planes in April 2016. NATO's initial reaction, agreed at the 2014 Wales summit following the annexation of Crimea, has focused on improvement of the ability to reinforce the easternmost Allies in case of a crisis or conflict. Meanwhile, Russia has developed various capabilities (long range air defences, anti-ship missiles, land attack cruise and ballistic missiles) that could impede the deployment of NATO forces," the analyst says.  Therefore, he says, placing multinational Allied battalions in Poland and each of the Baltic states will strengthen deterrence by signaling to Russia that NATO would be willing and able to defend its members.

Recalling that for several years Russia has been calling for a so called new security architecture, which would in fact recreate spheres of influence, provide Russia with a veto over NATO decisions, and deny other countries the right to choose their alliances,  Artur Kacprzyk says: "The Alliance cannot and must not agree to such revision. It would go against the basic values of NATO and the fundamental rules of post-cold war order in Europe, as agreed by all countries of the continent." 

"Nonetheless, there are areas in which dialogue between NATO and EU members and Russia could possibly lead to improvement of security situation.  One of them is prevention of military accidents, with a possible agreement on that matter between NATO and Russia. The Alliance has also supported efforts within the OSCE to enhance military transparency. Unfortunately, progress in both areas in currently unlikely given Russian position," he says for conclusion.