If it is to survive, NATO needs to do more

It is no surprise then that “New Europe” is now the most frantic to find a viable defense for itself. “New Europe” has traditionally looked to “Old Europe” for an alliance. But Old has repeatedly betrayed New, and looks set to do so again.

According to the CIA Factbook, the combined population of the former Warsaw Pact/USSR countries in eastern Europe and the Caucasus (excluding Belarus) is 162.5 million, compared to Russia’s 140.7 million. Combined GDP for this group is $1,290 billion, compared to Russia’s $1,286 billion. In theory at least, the now-free countries in eastern Europe and the Caucasus have the combined population and economic output to rival Russia. And this does not take into account Russia’s defense responsibilities in central Asia, against China, and in the Pacific.

“New Europe” will find a way to defend itself. Breaking away from NATO might be the answer. Is this the outcome leaders in Berlin, Brussels, Paris, and London want?