Tag: Military Alliances
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Europe Must Stay Vigilant
Mika Aaltola explains how Russia’s war in Ukraine transformed Finnish public opinion and pushed Finland into NATO. He argues that Finland’s defense posture and trust-based society enable it to lead by example. For Europe to remain relevant, Aaltola urges stronger, more coordinated defense and renewed trust in institutions. Investing in security is not a threat…
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Remembering Singapore
Has the 2025 Munich Security Conference changed the assessment of the US alliance in Australia? Yes, there has been a shift, but historical memory of the Fall of Singapore has shaped it. Australia still feels safer in ANZUS, but only because it is so insecure in its perception of its position
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A Fading Alliance?
1. Will the CSTO have a future as a relevant organization? 2. We see a history of inaction, Russia maintains a leadership role within the organization and its current priorities are elsewhere, we have seen member states question the organization. 3. Although the organization is unlikely to disappear, its fragmentation and decline will create room…
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Trump and the EU’s Security: Are we Prepared for Uncertainty?
Trump’s second presidency raises concerns about EU security as US support becomes uncertain. His stance on NATO and protectionism weakens transatlantic trust, making EU strategic autonomy essential. The EU must invest in defence, enhance rapid response mechanisms, and strengthen multilateral ties. Preparing for hybrid threats and geopolitical shifts is crucial. Therefore, ensuring security without US…
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Military Recruitment Across 4 NATO States in 2025:
1. What challenges are being faced by the U.S., Canada, Poland, and Germany with regards to military recruitment? 2. Different political and military pressures have driven many innovative practices, but with mixed results. 3. States can learn from each other’s responses to military recruitment shortfalls.
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Impact of the US Election on the Asia-Pacific
1. What are the challenges facing the Asia-Pacific Region today?; 2. Trump will face new challenges that make the region more volatile than during his first term; 3. He has influential China hawks in his administration, but also anti-war activists, making it difficult to predict how he will handle the region
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Stoltenberg Out, Rutte In
What can be expected from Mark Rutte as NATO’s new Secretary General? This article examines Rutte’s thirteen years as Dutch prime minister, marked by crisis management and coalition-building, qualities now essential for NATO. With tensions escalating from Russia, China, and within NATO itself, Rutte’s diplomatic skills and pragmatic approach to international relations are crucial. Despite…
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NATO Aspirations
The October brief warns that declining military reserves in Europe harm Civil-Military Cooperation by weakening civilian understanding of the military.
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In the Shadow of Ballots
Main Question: How will the 2024 US election impact EU security and transatlantic relations? Argument: A Harris win would likely strengthen NATO and US-EU cooperation, pushing Europe towards more responsibility in defense. A Trump victory could weaken NATO, increase US isolationism, and embolden nationalist movements in the EU. Conclusion: The EU must prepare to enhance…
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The Turkish-Iraqi Security Agreement
The 2024 Turkish-Iraqi security agreement boosts military collaboration, challenges Iran’s influence, and raises concerns about Turkey’s sway in Iraq.