Analysis & Opinions - Foreign Policy

NATO Isn't What You Think It Is

| July 26, 2018

An attack on one isn't really an attack on all and four other misunderstood facts about the Western defense alliance.

Of all the goofy things that Donald Trump has done as president, nothing ignites the outrage of the U.S. foreign-policy establishment more than his disregard for NATO. They think his trade policy makes no sense, believe he's getting played by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, are horrified by his fondness for Russian President Vladimir Putin and other authoritarian leaders, and fear he is stumbling toward a stupid war with Iran. But going after NATO is like criticizing baseball, kicking a friendly puppy, or lobbying for rapid and unilateral disarmament. To do so isn't just a matter of intelligent policy disagreement for these folks; it’s almost an act of heresy....

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For more information on this publication: Belfer Communications Office
For Academic Citation: Walt, Stephen M.“NATO Isn't What You Think It Is.” Foreign Policy, July 26, 2018.

The Author

Stephen Walt

Stephen M. Walt

  • Robert and Renée Belfer Professor of International Affairs; Faculty Chair, International Security Program
  • Member of the Board, Belfer Center
  • Faculty Affiliate, Future of Diplomacy Project
  • Faculty Affiliate, Middle East Initiative
Expertise:
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