There is a growing division among NATO member states about how to strengthen its defenses on the Eastern flank despite a consensus political opinion. The varying views of NATO members, both in the west and in the east, have been exacerbated by Russia's actions in Ukraine and its subsequent aggression in the Baltic region.
The United States has the responsibility of ensuring that NATO is ready to respond to Eastern flank threats. But it is hard to answer the question of NATO's effectiveness in responding. For NATO to be able to defend its Eastern flank, it must overcome many obstacles.
One of those obstacles is Russia's forward defenses, which include fighter aircraft bases and missile sites. These defenses enable Moscow to engage NATO reinforcements prior to reaching forward-deployed troops. NATO cannot now do as much for the Eastern flank as it used to. Many talented people are still trying to figure out ways to strengthen this flank.
Moving equipment across Europe can be a logistical nightmare. In the past it was quite simple to move equipment and troops across Europe. Today, it is much more complex to move troops. The challenge is to move troops across Europe quickly, while maintaining their capabilities. Dedicated weapons may not exist in sufficient numbers.
Another challenge is the need for permanent forces on the Eastern flank. NATO members disagree on whether these forces should be permanent, rotating, or limited in size. Many Central Europeans have concerns about U.S. troops going to Europe. Others are worried about Russia's ability use the NATO Russia Found Act as a means to sow divisions within NATO.
NATO and its member countries must reach an agreement on a long term strategy for Russia defense. This strategy should include deterrence and resilience as well as unity. It must also consider cyber and hybrid threats. NATO must also agree on a strategy to address the diverse interests of its member states. The strategy must address how NATO's Eastern flank will be strengthened.
Some NATO members are worried that Russia might invade Latvia. Others aren't so sure. However, most NATO member states see the need for a permanent presence on the Eastern side. Other ways to strengthen the Eastern flank include a Military Schengen that would allow equipment to be freely moved to Eastern flank countries.
While NATO has made a lot of progress in strengthening its east-facing defenses, there is still a split on its role. Some members from the south feel that NATO isn't doing enough to ensure their security. These fears weaken NATO member's sense of solidarity. The United States counters the fears by offering defense guarantees. This strategy can only strengthen NATO's capabilities of deterrence.
NATO has had to respond as Russia continues its offensive against Ukraine. NATO responded by bolstering its Eastern flank with dispersed forces and strengthening its defenses. Similar divisions were overcome in the past by NATO's major allies working together. The future of Europe's conflict frontline will be the Eastern wing. This new front line, which will be located in the Baltic Region, will be a major threat to NATO's forces. However, the threat from Russia has become more powerful and complex, raising questions about the organization's ability to respond effectively.