'The Allies in the West began to see that the Soviets were trying to take their advantage after World War II,' seeking to turn countries in Central and Eastern Europe into 'satellite nations' of the Soviet Union, Jim Townsend, who served as deputy assistant secretary of defense for Europe and NATO during the Obama administration, tells NPR. It's a military and political alliance that was founded in 1949 in response to the actions of the Soviet Union. NATO is the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. Here's a quick overview of the alliance, the role that the United States plays within it, and what it's doing to help Ukraine amid Russia's invasion. NATO Allies continue to encourage and support Ukraine in its reform efforts, including in the security and defence sector, with regard to civilian control and democratic oversight, and in the fight against corruption.Leaders of NATO member nations pose for a photo at NATO headquarters in Brussels on March 24.Īs Russia continues its attack on Ukraine, the role of NATO is at the forefront. Ukraine’s status as an Enhanced Opportunities Partner does not prejudge any decisions on NATO membership. Each of the partners has a tailor-made relationship with NATO, based on areas of mutual interest. Ukraine is now one of six Enhanced Opportunities Partners, alongside Australia, Finland, Georgia, Jordan and Sweden.

“ This decision recognises Ukraine’s strong contributions to NATO missions, and demonstrates the Alliance’s continued commitment to its partnerships despite the COVID-19 pandemic,” said NATO Spokesperson Oana Lungescu. This includes enhanced access to interoperability programmes and exercises, and more sharing of information, including lessons learned. Allies highly value these significant contributions, which demonstrate Ukraine’s commitment to Euro-Atlantic security.Īs an Enhanced Opportunities Partner, Ukraine will benefit from tailor-made opportunities to help sustain such contributions. As a NATO partner, Ukraine has provided troops to Allied operations, including in Afghanistan and Kosovo, as well as to the NATO Response Force and NATO exercises.

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