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NATO: In Search of a Mission

'WorldWatch' by David C. Grabbe

Throughout the Cold War, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), also known as the North Atlantic Alliance, stood as a critical defense against a Soviet invasion of Europe. The core principle of NATO was that an armed attack against one member in Europe or North America would be considered an attack against all, a vital assurance for European nations facing the threat of massive Soviet and Warsaw Pact forces. Lord Ismay, NATO's first Secretary General, pragmatically summarized its purpose as keeping the Russians out of Europe, the Americans in, and the Germans down. For four decades, Europe relied on the U.S. through NATO to deter the Soviet Union, providing a security guarantee that allowed European nations to allocate fewer resources to defense. However, since the dissolution of the Warsaw Pact and the collapse of the U.S.S.R. in 1991, the 28-member Alliance has struggled to define its purpose. Without a clear threat, NATO enlargement became a goal in itself, and interventions in the Balkans and Afghanistan failed to unify the alliance. Member states have developed divergent threat priorities, with the U.S. focusing on militant Islam abroad while most European nations treat terrorism as a domestic issue. Russia's resurgence has caused concern among Eastern European NATO members, but Western and Southern Europe, particularly Germany, show little alarm and instead favor cooperation with Russia. European NATO allies are increasingly divided on the primary reason for the alliance's continuation. France and Germany, entertaining a Russian proposal for a new European Security Treaty, indicate a shift away from viewing NATO as essential to their interests. They no longer see Russia as a threat and seek to avoid involvement in costly American military endeavors. Although NATO remains technically viable, it is becoming apparent to many members that it may have outlived its usefulness, signaling the potential beginning of its end.

Cold War Redux?

'WorldWatch' by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

Vladimir Putin's leadership has brought Russia back into play as a world power, and nearby nations are once again bracing against its unwelcome aggression.

A Battle Group for Eastern Europe

'WorldWatch' by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

A little-known town in Eastern Europe has given its name to a newly formed battle group consisting of Poland, Hungary, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia.

Down But Not Out!

'Prophecy Watch' by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

Russia seems like a nation—an empire—in deep decline. But is it? We would be wise to keep an eye on the Russian bear!

Who Is America's Greatest Enemy?

'WorldWatch' by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

The United States stands weakened by worldwide conditions, but its foreign enemies cannot match its power. Its real foe lies much closer.

The Rise (Again) of Nations

'WorldWatch' by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

The last few decades have seen the rise of globalism as a prime factor in international relations. But the pendulum is swinging back toward nationalism.

Rudderless Leadership in U.S. Foreign Affairs

'WorldWatch' by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

With one look at American activity on the world scene, an observer is struck by the lack of coherence of this administration's foreign policy.

Turkey: A Resurging Pivotal Power

'WorldWatch' by David C. Grabbe

When Turkey develops economically, it develops militarily. It then becomes the leading power—in many regions. That is what it means to be a pivotal power.

Yet Another Call for a European Army

Commentary by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

If our speculations about a military might emerging from the European Union (assuming the Beast rises out of Europe) are correct, it won't be anytime soon.

A World at War

'WorldWatch' by Joseph B. Baity

Global conflict increased dramatically between 2021 and 2023, in contrast to the prior six years. The outlook for peace apart from Christ's return is dim.

Anti-Americanism Abroad

'Prophecy Watch' by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

God prophesies that Israel will be conquered in the end time. Could anti-American sentiment, especially in Europe, be the beginning of the end?

The Axis of Evil and the Western Coalition

'WorldWatch' by David C. Grabbe

God warned ancient Israel against putting their trust in alliances with other peoples. If only the modern nations of Israel would heed His counsel!

Waving the White Flag

Commentary by Joseph B. Baity

The radical Islamic forces, like hungry sharks, are circling America and the West, smelling blood in the water and the scent of fear from a defeated nation.

The Beast and Babylon (Part Two)

'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh

Currently, Europe is not looking very Beastly. Babylon is the world's anti-God system, and Roman institutions inspire Israelite culture even today.

WorldWatch

'WorldWatch' by David C. Grabbe

News, events, and trends in the light of the Bible for January 2003.