The Russian Federation poses the greatest threat to the security of NATO member states, and the Alliance intends to respond to Russian threats and hostile actions.
Source: NATO 2022 Strategic Concept
“The Russian Federation is the most significant and direct threat to Allies’ security and peace and stability in the Euro-Atlantic area. It seeks to establish spheres of influence and direct control through coercion, subversion, aggression and annexation. It uses conventional, cyber and hybrid means against us and our partners. Its coercive military posture, rhetoric and proven willingness to use force to pursue its political goals undermine the rules-based international order.”
“The Russian Federation is modernizing its nuclear forces and expanding its novel and disruptive dual-capable delivery systems while employing coercive nuclear signalling. It aims to destabilize countries to our East and South. In the High North, its capability to disrupt Allied reinforcements and freedom of navigation across the North Atlantic is a strategic challenge to the Alliance. Moscow’s military build-up, including in the Baltic, Black and the Mediterranean Sea regions, along with its military integration with Belarus, challenge our security and interests.”
At the same time, NATO does not seek confrontation and does not pose a threat to the Russian Federation.
“We will significantly strengthen deterrence and defence for all Allies, enhance our resilience against Russian coercion and support our partners to counter malign interference and aggression. In light of its hostile policies and actions, we cannot consider the Russian Federation to be our partner.”
See also: Ukraine’s priority is not to join NATO, but to win the war, – NATO Official Representative
