The NATO Defense Ministers will review the alliance’s operations in Afghanistan, Kosovo, Iraq and at sea during the defense ministerial which will be held on 13th and 14th of February.
A NATO official said “The Ministerial will begin with a session focused on the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty. Allies will have an opportunity to exchange views and provide guidance on the implications of Russia’s breach of the INF Treaty. All Allies agree that Russia’s violation of the treaty erodes the foundation of arms control and undermines Allied security. Allies will then discuss efforts to strengthen the Alliance’s defence and deterrence.”
The official further added that “The focus will be on NATO’s readiness initiative, which requires Allies to have 30 land battalions, 30 air squadrons and 30 combat vessels ready to use within 30 days. Ministers will also discuss efforts to address security challenges from the South. SACEUR and SACT will provide updates on these subjects, including work to adapt the NATO command structure.”
The official also added that the ministers will review NATO operations in Afghanistan, Kosovo, Iraq and at sea on 14th of February.
“The Ministerial will end with a session with the European Union and Finland and Sweden for talks on European defence initiatives and NATO-EU cooperation” the official said adding that “With respect to Afghanistan, the NATO Defence Ministers will review the current situation and exchange views on how best to continue supporting the further development and sustainment of the Afghan security forces and current efforts to move forward an Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace and reconciliation process.”
