NATO MILITARY ALLIANCE
From Cold War to the Ukraine war: NATO at 75
NATO marks 75 years; founded by 12 members, now 32, including Finland and Nordic neighbors. Article Five triggered after the September 11, 2001 attacks. Troops in Kosovo since 1999. Formed to counter Cold War threats. Members aim for two percent GDP on defense post Russia’s Ukraine invasion. Trump criticized low defense spending, and Macron acknowledged NATO’s revival.
India-Russia ties: The optics of Modi with Putin when Nato meets in Washington
While Nato meets from July 9-11 in Washington to discuss Ukraine, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Russia on July 8-9 to meet President Vladimir Putin. Nato’s primary focus will be on supporting Ukraine and potential membership, as emphasized by Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg. Indian Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra assures Modi's visit is pre-scheduled. This visit challenges Russia’s isolation narrative, reinforced by Hungary's recent support. Moscow-based expert Aleksei Zakharov underscores the significance of Russia's neutrality in India-China disputes. The trip addresses US concerns over India-Russia military-tech ties.
India a key ally of US in rivalry with China: US ambassador to India
America is investing locally and joining hands with allies such as India to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific region while competing with China, US ambassador to India Eric Garcetti said.
With its new pact with North Korea, Russia raises the stakes with the West over Ukraine
In a significant move, President Putin's visit to North Korea showcased Russia's willingness to challenge Western interests, particularly in the context of the Ukraine crisis. The pact signed with Kim Jong Un includes mutual military assistance and the possibility of weapons shipments to North Korea. This agreement marks the strongest tie between the two countries since the Cold War. Putin's actions have raised concerns in Washington and Seoul, with South Korea considering supplying arms to Ukraine in response. However, Putin warned against this, indicating potential repercussions.
Thousands of NATO troops join drills in strategically sensitive Baltic Sea region
NATO troops from 20 countries are participating in military exercises in the Baltic Sea region, which has become increasingly sensitive following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The exercises include sea mine sweeps, submarine detection, and landings. The exercises are organized by NATO's Naval Striking and Support Forces and the U.S. 6th fleet.
A record number of NATO allies are hitting their defence spending target during war in Ukraine
Over 20 NATO member nations are meeting the alliance's defense spending target, amidst concerns over Russia's war in Ukraine. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg commended European efforts for collective security, ahead of a pivotal summit in Washington.
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NATO to take greater role in coordination of military aid for Kyiv, says Stoltenberg
During a visit by Stoltenberg to Budapest, Prime Minister Viktor Orban said his country would not block NATO decisions on providing support for Ukraine but had agreed that it would not be involved.
What are the security deals Ukraine is signing with allies?
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy will sign bilateral security agreements with the United States and Japan at the G7 Summit in Italy, finalizing similar deals with all G7 nations. These agreements, following a joint G7 declaration in July last year, ensure long-term security aid, including military support, intelligence-sharing, and cyber defense. While they aim to strengthen Ukraine's defense amidst its ongoing war with Russia, they are not substitutes for NATO membership, which remains Ukraine's strategic goal. The agreements build on prior commitments, emphasizing immediate aid in case of further Russian aggression.
NATO chief says 'no immediate military threat' against alliance
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg assured that there is "no immediate military threat" against any NATO member, despite rising tensions with Russia. The Kremlin recently accused the West of escalating the war in Ukraine after the US allowed Ukraine to use American-supplied weapons against Russian targets to defend Kharkiv. During a visit to Sweden, Stoltenberg emphasized that NATO's Article 5 commitment remains intact but isn't expected to be tested. Sweden's Prime Minister announced Swedish Gripen jets will join NATO's Air Policing force. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged the West for more military support.
Biden apologizes to Ukraine's Zelenskyy for monthslong holdup to weapons that let Russia make gains
In Paris, U.S. President Joe Biden publicly apologized to Ukraine for a months-long delay in military aid caused by conservative Republicans in Congress, which allowed Russia to gain ground. Biden assured continued American support while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged bipartisan backing akin to World War II. Biden and Zelenskyy attended D-Day anniversary events, with Biden emphasizing unwavering support for Ukraine. Zelenskyy highlighted the significance of Ukraine's struggle, drawing parallels with World War II sacrifices. Additionally, French President Emmanuel Macron announced the transfer of Mirage-2000 jets to Ukraine.
NATO nations 'need to build more' military equipment: top general to AFP
NATO must boost military equipment production to counter Russia's growing threat, said General Christopher Cavoli at the D-Day 80th anniversary in Normandy. Cavoli emphasized the need to expand the industrial base and highlighted the recent Steadfast Defender 24 exercise involving 90,000 troops. With a shift towards territorial defense, NATO is adapting to modern conflicts' high demand for equipment. Cavoli stressed the importance of quick hardware production and learning from the Ukraine war, including innovative drone use, with a new "lessons learned" center in Poland.
US trying to build Asia-Pacific version of NATO: Chinese defence official
A Chinese defense official criticizes the US' attempt to build an Asia-Pacific version of NATO through its Indo-Pacific strategy, calling it doomed to fail due to selfish geopolitical interests.
What is NATO chief's proposal for military aid for Ukraine?
NATO foreign ministers will debate a military support package for Ukraine proposed by alliance boss Jens Stoltenberg, due to uncertainty over future U.S. support for Ukraine due to the possible return of former president Donald Trump to the White House. Stoltenberg has proposed putting military aid for Kyiv on a longer-term footing, along with a multi-year financial pledge. NATO's 32 member countries have different views on the plan, and the ministers will seek to narrow those divisions at their meeting in Prague.
France's Macron urges a green light for Ukraine to strike targets inside Russia with Western weapons
French President Emmanuel Macron urged Western allies to allow Ukraine to strike Russian military bases using long-range weapons provided by the West. Macron's call, echoed by NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg, comes amid Ukraine's struggles due to delayed military aid and shortages. While Western leaders have been cautious, fearing escalation, Macron emphasized targeting only Russian bases launching attacks on Ukraine. The U.S. remains hesitant, maintaining restrictions on using its weapons to strike inside Russia. Recent European pledges include significant military support from Belgium, Spain, and Sweden.
Ukraine says it has checked Russia's offensive in a key town, but Moscow says it will keep pushing
Ukrainian forces have halted a Russian advance in Vovchansk, a key northeastern town near the Russian border, according to Kyiv. However, Moscow insists it has sufficient resources to continue its offensive. Ukraine's President Zelenskyy acknowledged the difficult situation and is bolstering defenses in Kharkiv. Russia aims to create a buffer zone to prevent Ukrainian strikes on Russia. Amid ongoing battles, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced a $2 billion arms deal for Ukraine, while NATO urged increased military support for Kyiv.
Russia boosts weapons production for Ukraine war amid US military aid approval: Report
In a meeting with Russia's top military officials on Wednesday, Shoigu emphasised the imperative to enhance the volume, quality, and speed of arms production. He also instructed for the repair of units stationed on the front lines in Ukraine's eastern and southern regions to enhance their operational effectiveness, the Ministry of Defence said on the Telegram messaging app.
NATO chief chides members as Ukraine's allies say slow arms deliveries have helped Russia
Outgunned, Ukraine's troops have struggled to fend off Russian advances on the battlefield. They were recently compelled to make a tactical retreat from three villages in the east, where the Kremlin's forces have been making incremental gains, Ukraine's army chief said Sunday. The Russian Defense Ministry claimed Monday its forces had also taken the village of Semenivka.
NATO's chief chides alliance countries for not being quicker to help Ukraine against Russia
NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg expressed concern over delays in NATO countries delivering promised military aid to Ukraine, allowing Russia to gain ground in the ongoing conflict. Stoltenberg cited shortcomings in supplying weapons, ammunition, and air defense systems, contributing to Ukraine's tactical retreat from several villages in the eastern region. Despite Western pledges of support, including vital U.S. military assistance delayed due to political disputes, and ongoing efforts to bolster Ukraine's military capabilities, Russia's superior resources and support from other nations pose significant challenges.
Sweden should spend more on defence and increase the number of conscripts, lawmakers recommend
Sweden recommends a 54 billion kronor military budget increase by 2030 for stronger air defenses and more conscripts post-NATO entry, aligning with regional military expansions.
NATO Membership and Defence Spending: Key facts you need to know
Sweden officially became a member of NATO, joining Finland in the alliance's largest expansion since the 1990s. This move comes amid rising tensions with Russia and NATO's efforts to bolster its defences. With 32 member countries, including the UK, US, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and Turkey, NATO aims to counter threats from "authoritarian states" like Russia. Ukraine, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Georgia also aspire to join NATO, highlighting the alliance's role in today's geopolitical landscape.
Norway plans $56 billion defence boost to counter Russia
Norway intends to boost its military spending by 600 billion crowns ($56 billion) by 2036 to enhance its defense capabilities against Russia and other security threats, marking a historic increase. The planned expenditure over the next 12 years totals 1.62 trillion crowns. Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere highlighted the significant strengthening of all armed forces branches. This decision follows the war in Ukraine, which has heightened concerns about potential Russian aggression. Despite the increased military spending, Norway's sovereign wealth fund, the world's largest, will continue to limit annual government spending to 3% of its total assets.
Serbia to boost defence industry cooperation with France, President Vucic says
Serbia aims to enhance defense industry cooperation with France and is pursuing the purchase of Rafale fighter jets, signaling a shift away from Russian arms suppliers. President Aleksandar Vucic plans to discuss this cooperation with French President Emmanuel Macron during his upcoming visit to France. Despite its military neutrality, Serbia seeks to modernize its armed forces, currently relying on Soviet-designed aircraft and Russian weaponry. The country has also acquired Chinese anti-aircraft missiles and combat drones.
NATO weighs a plan to provide long-term military help to Ukraine as Russian troops assert control
NATO is considering a plan to provide more stable military support to Ukraine amid Russian advances on the battlefield. The proposal aims to reduce reliance on short-term offers and increase long-term commitments. This plan would involve NATO coordinating the efforts of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, which gathers countries to provide weapons and ammunition. While NATO would not directly supply weapons, it would provide an institutional framework to support Ukraine. The plan is expected to be endorsed at a summit in July, potentially involving up to USD 100 billion in support.
Estonia must double defence spending to counter Russia, military chief says
Estonia's military chief, General Martin Herem, stated that the country needs to double its defense spending in the next two years to amass enough munitions to decisively defeat any Russian invasion force. He emphasized the need for a rapid and decisive victory to repel any potential Russian aggression. Despite President Vladimir Putin's denial of intentions to target NATO members, Estonia remains vigilant, having increased its defense budget to around 3% of GDP since Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014. Estonia is also exploring cost-effective ways to enhance its defense capabilities.
NATO countries not giving Ukraine 'enough ammunition': Stoltenberg
NATO head Jens Stoltenberg said on Thursday alliance members "are not providing Ukraine with enough ammunition" and the shortfall has allowed Russia to push Kyiv's forces back. Ukraine was recently forced out of the strategic stronghold of Avdiivka after a fierce battle and its soldiers are struggling to stop Russia pushing further.
Hungary president signs Sweden's NATO membership ratification
Hungary's President Tamas Sulyok has signed a bill approving Sweden's accession to the NATO military alliance, paving the way for Sweden to become the 32nd member in the coming days. Stockholm abandoned its non-alignment policy after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The remaining formalities, such as depositing accession documentation in Washington, are expected to be completed swiftly.
What does NATO entry mean for Sweden?
Sweden's decision to join NATO marks a significant shift in its defense policy and the regional geopolitical balance. The country's increased military spending and contribution to NATO forces in Latvia are notable changes. Joining NATO also means that the Baltic Sea is now surrounded by alliance members. With the combined strength of 32 countries, Sweden's military believes the risk of conflict is reduced.
Finland joins NATO operations with fighter jets, mine clearing vessel
Finland has announced its intention to send up to eight fighter jets and a navy mine hunting vessel to participate in NATO's joint operations in 2024. Finland, having joined NATO last year, is taking part in collective defense missions, aiming to strengthen deterrence and show unity with allies. The Katanpaa class vessel will join NATO's mine countermeasure unit in the Baltic Sea, while the fighter jets will engage in air patrolling and deterrence activities in Romania, Bulgaria, and the Black Sea. The move reflects Finland's commitment to NATO and its response to regional security challenges, particularly involving Russia.
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