NATO is set to hold a crucial meeting of foreign ministers on November 28-29 in Brussels, chaired by Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg. While the spotlight is on bolstering military support for Ukraine against Russian aggression, the alliance grapples with internal divisions that threaten its cohesion.
A significant point of contention is Turkey's stance on Sweden's NATO membership. The Turkish Parliament's Foreign Affairs Committee recently delayed the vote on Sweden's bid, citing concerns that Sweden harbors or protects terrorist organizations that pose a threat to Turkey. This move has sparked debate among Western nations, with some arguing that Turkey's obstruction undermines NATO's unity and its collective approach to counter-terrorism.
These internal disagreements are further complicated by varying security priorities within NATO. Countries like Poland and those in the Baltic region advocate for a stronger focus on countering Russian influence and supporting Ukraine. However, the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, along with the resulting humanitarian crisis in Gaza, has shifted Europe's attention towards managing refugee influxes and addressing rising far-right and anti-Semitic activities.
The United States, a cornerstone of NATO, has been notably active in the region, deploying aircraft carrier groups to the eastern Mediterranean and providing military assistance to Israel. This strategic move has raised concerns among European nations about escalating tensions on their doorstep.
As NATO navigates these complex challenges, the upcoming foreign ministers' meeting will be pivotal in determining the alliance's future direction and its ability to present a united front in an increasingly polarized geopolitical landscape.
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It's difficult for NATO to reach consensus by continued expansion
cgtn.com
