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NATO Suspends Cold War-Era Security Treaty

  • 09 Nov 2023

On 7th November, 2023, NATO formally suspended a key Cold War-era security treaty in reaction to Russia's withdrawal from the agreement.

Key Points

  • Suspension of the Treaty: NATO announced the suspension of the Treaty of Conventional Armed Forces in Europe, with most of its 31 allies signing the pact to prevent the massing of forces by Cold War rivals near mutual borders. The treaty was signed in November 1990 but ratified two years later.
  • Unsustainability of One-Sided Treaty: NATO stressed that a situation in which allied state parties uphold the treaty while Russia does not would be unsustainable.
  • The alliance made this decision in response to Russia's announcement of its withdrawal from the treaty.
  • Supported Decision by All NATO Allies: NATO members who signed the treaty have chosen to suspend its operation for as long as necessary, in line with their rights under international law. This decision is unanimously supported by all NATO allies.
  • Commitment to Reducing Military Risk: NATO emphasized its continued commitment to reducing military risk, preventing misperceptions, and avoiding conflicts as a primary objective.