Transatlantic Security Initiative Commentary & Analysis

Ian Brzezinski cited in the Economist on NATO’s future relationship with China

Ian Brzezinski was quoted in the Economist on policy options NATO could take to address China’s rise and malign activities.

NATO secretary general unveils his vision for the Alliance’s future

By David A. Wemer

On June 8, Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg laid out his plans for a new period of reflection on the Alliance’s mission and structure over the next ten years. At a time when the COVID-19 pandemic has accentuated certain security threats to member states, including “unabated” Russian military activity, the spread of disinformation and propaganda, and the disruptive ascendance of China, NATO “must stay strong militarily, be more united politically, and take a broader approach globally,” he stated.

Increase NATO’s operational reach: Expanding the NATO SOF network

By Thang Q. Tran

NATO cannot safeguard the coalition’s interests unilaterally. Strategic investments in NATO Special Operations Forces (SOF) to expand the NATO SOF Network will provide political and military leaders the full range of options in response to emerging threats—both hybrid and conventional—through strong partnerships within the Alliance and with partners.

NATO’s role in a transatlantic strategy on China

By Ian Brzezinski

NATO can be an effective forum for Allies to share awareness of China’s capabilities and activities, develop a transatlantic security strategy regarding China, and pool capacities for engagement and deterrence.

COVID-19 will not change Italy’s Euro-Atlantic position, defense minister says

By Francesco Bechis

“Many countries have shown solidarity toward Italy in an extraordinary situation. We talk to everyone, but the pillars of our security are NATO and the European Union, and these shall remain,” Guerini said.

Brzezinski and Skaluba cited in the Economist on COVID-19’s impact on defense spending

By Ian Brzezinski and Chris Skaluba

Ian Brzezinski and Chris Skaluba quoted on the likelihood that COVID-19 will drive down defense spending and the implications that has for reigniting the burden-sharing debate in NATO.

NATO’s defense depends on mobility

By David A. Wemer

Military mobility—the ability to move massive amounts of troops and military equipment across territory and national borders rapidly—has warranted increasing attention from NATO policymakers over the last few years, but significant legal, diplomatic, and logistical challenges still need to be overcome—not to mention the sudden impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. “We have made some real progress,” explained US Army Europe Commander General Christopher Cavoli, “but there is a bit of work left to be done.”

Starling writes article on European military mobility in Defense One

By Atlantic Council

Deputy Director of Forward Defense Clementine Starling reviews the successes of and challenges to European military mobility in the wake of COVID-19, and advances four solutions.

NATO allies have stepped up to help each other during coronavirus emergency

By David A. Wemer

Although the coronavirus pandemic has strained the medical infrastructure and economies of countries across Europe and North America, NATO allies “are coming to the rescue of those in need,” NATO Deputy Secretary General Mircea Geoană said on April 16. Despite initial focuses on the dire situation within each country’s own borders, Geoană reported that he has seen “this almost natural reaction to come to the assistance of our neighbors.”