NATO statement: 'Russia is not a threat'

Stoltenberg made assessments regarding NATO's future perspective to the German television channel ARD.

Regarding claims that "If Russia wins the war in Ukraine, it will also attack a NATO member country," Stoltenberg said, "We do not perceive an imminent military threat against any NATO ally."

Stoltenberg, noting that NATO has been significantly strengthened in recent times, said, "Of course, peace does not happen on its own. Even though there is no imminent threat, we have made significant investments in our defense. We have increased our readiness levels and the strength of our armed forces. For the first time in history, we have restructured a combat unit. This is the greatest strengthening NATO has carried out in a generation."

Stoltenberg noted that NATO has recognized and adapted to the new reality that emerged following Russia's illegal annexation of Crimea in 2014.

EXPECTATIONS FROM GERMANY AND THE US

NATO Secretary General Stoltenberg stated that he expects Germany and all other allies to modernize their armed forces and to train and equip them accordingly, adding, "Germany is currently the ally that spends the most on defense after the US and the United Kingdom. Germany is contributing to collective defense within NATO. Germany and all other partners must continue to increase their efforts so that we can build a reliable defense in the future."

Evaluating the potential impact on NATO if Donald Trump were to become president in the US elections, Stoltenberg expressed his expectation that the US would remain a reliable and loyal partner to NATO for various reasons, emphasizing that a strong NATO is also in the security interest of the US.

Reminding that Trump has criticized allies for spending too little on NATO, Stoltenberg said, "This was not essentially a criticism directed at NATO itself, but rather a criticism of NATO allies for not spending enough. 

However, they are spending now, and as long as we stand together and act together, we are safe. NATO allies account for 50 percent of the world's economic and military power. This is both good and positive for the US, and that is why I expect them to remain a reliable partner."

News Source: AA