The magnitude of the destruction caused by World War II was such that the victorious powers, under the leadership of the United States of America, established various organizations to prevent such a recurrence in the future. The most important organization they founded, which contributed greatly to maintaining peace in the world, is NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization).

NATO was a military alliance among free, democratic countries that joined forces to protect themselves from the then-Warsaw Pact, the military alliance established as a counterweight by the Soviet Union.

Article 5 of NATO makes it perfectly clear that an attack against any member country of NATO by a non-member country is considered an attack against all members of the Alliance. Unfortunately, it does not foresee the case where a NATO member, for example, Turkey, attacks another member, for example, Greece. Interestingly, Cyprus did not see the benefits that would arise from having a seat at the NATO negotiating table.

With the collapse of the Soviet Union and the complete dominance of America, many believed that the raison d’être of NATO had been eliminated. Most countries, for example, except Greece, reduced their defense spending, which should be at least 2% of their GDP. Several countries of the former Soviet Union became members, causing concern in Russia, which saw NATO approaching its doorstep. However, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine radically changed the landscape.

The Europeans, led by France, which previously reduced military spending to divert savings to social programs, now rushed to stand by Ukraine and revive its military industry.
Regarding Ukraine, under no circumstances should Putin be allowed to win. Historical examples must become lessons. Today, therefore, not only is the role and mission of NATO better understood, but also its necessity.

Unfortunately, Turkey’s role as a member of NATO is controversial, causing rifts in the unity of the alliance. Its ambivalent position, with respect to Russia, its undermining of the role and mission of the alliance – see, for example, the way it blocked Sweden’s accession for a year, has, however, strengthened the role of Greece – a very good thing.