While there is consensus among NATO members that NATO must strengthen its defenses of the Eastern flank, there is growing discord among them about how to do this. Russia's actions in Ukraine, and its subsequent aggression in Baltic have exacerbated the divergent views of NATO member states from the east and west.
The United States is responsible for ensuring that NATO can respond to threats to its Eastern flank. The question of whether NATO can respond effectively to threats to its Eastern flank is not an easy one to answer. To protect NATO's Eastern flank, there are many obstacles.
One of those obstacles is Russia's forward defenses, which include fighter aircraft bases and missile sites. These defenses allow Moscow to engage NATO reinforcements before they reach forward-deployed units. NATO can no longer do as much on its Eastern flank than before. However, many great minds are working on ways to strengthen Eastern flank.
Moving equipment across Europe presents another challenge. In the past, moving troops and equipment across Europe was relatively easy. However, today moving troops across Europe is much more challenging. The challenge lies in moving troops across Europe efficiently while maintaining their capabilities. Dedicated weapons may not exist in sufficient numbers.
Another issue is the need to have permanent forces on the Eastern side. NATO members disagree over whether these forces should exist in a rotating, permanent or small scale. Many Central Europeans have concerns about U.S. troops going to Europe. Some are also concerned about Russia's potential to use NATO-Russia Found Act to sow divisions within NATO.
NATO and its member states must come to an agreement on a long-term strategy for defending Russia. The strategy must address unity, resilience, deterrence. It should also take into account the threats from hybrid and cyber attacks. In addition, NATO must agree on a strategy that addresses the varying interests of member states. The strategy must also include details about how NATO's Eastern flank can be strengthened and strengthened.
While NATO member states may be concerned about Russia invading Latvia, others doubt that Russia will attack Estonia. Many see the need to maintain a presence on the Eastern flank, despite these concerns. There are other options to strengthen the Eastern side, such as a Military Schengen which would allow equipment to flow freely to Eastern flank countries.
NATO has taken several steps to increase its eastward defenses but is still split over its role. Some countries in the south believe NATO isn't doing enough security to protect them. These fears weaken the sense of solidarity among NATO members. The United States counters with defense guarantees. This strategy, however, has limited potential for strengthening NATO's defensive capabilities.
NATO has had to respond as Russia continues its offensive against Ukraine. In response, NATO has bolstered its Eastern flank by dispersing forces and bolstering its defenses. In the past, similar divisions were often overcome by NATO's major allies working together. The front line of conflict for Europe will now be on the Eastern flank. This new front line will take shape in the Baltic region and will be a major challenge for NATO's forces. However, Russia's threat has become more complicated and more potent, raising questions about NATO’s ability to respond effectively.