commentary
How Strong Are U.S. Interests in Defending Countries Across Europe?
This vital question looms large in Washington partly because it was not squarely debated during NATO’s enlargement.
· March 19, 2024
Program
American Statecraft
Debating NATO Enlargement
Two scholars debate the wisdom of enlarging NATO after the Cold War, the extent to which Western policy played a role in bringing about Russia’s war in Ukraine, and how the United States should pursue its interests in Europe going forward.
As Russia’s invasion of Ukraine continues, the United States is grappling with how to sustain Kyiv and eventually re-establish security in Europe. Should Ukraine join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO)? To what extent has enlarging NATO promoted or damaged U.S. interests since the Cold War ended? Should the United States double down on its commitment to European security and provide more forces to face down a hostile and aggressive Russia? Or should it instead seek ways to bring the temperature down while shifting European defense burdens to its allies?
MOREMore From the American Statecraft Program
There is an urgent need for a more disciplined U.S. foreign policy that is clear-eyed about a more competitive world, realistic about the limits of American power, and aligned with domestic renewal. The Carnegie American Statecraft Program examines America’s role in the world and recommends policy ideas to help meet this need.
