Uncategorized

Greek Military Spending in Light of the Euro Zone Crisis

“If Only Two NATO Members Could Bury the Hatchet” In light of the euro zone debt crisis that has spread from Greece, many European countries, among them NATO members, are looking at their military spending as a possible source for budget cuts. As NATO’s Secretary General, Anders Fogh Rasmussen, warns that excessive cuts in defence Read More…

Uncategorized

Russo-Ukrainian Agreement on Black Sea Fleet Renewal Leaves NATO Door Still Open

On April 21, 2010 Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych and his Russian counterpart Dmitry Medvedev signed a deal extending the lease allowing Russia’s Black Sea Fleet to be stationed in Crimea, Ukraine for another 25 years beyond its original expiry date of 2017, with a possible further 5-year-extension.  In return, Russia agreed to grant Ukraine a Read More…

Uncategorized

NATO Council Honours Captain (Ret.) Trevor Greene

Address by Captain (Ret.) Trevor Greene to the NATO Council of Canada May 18th, 2010: I am truly honored and deeply humbled by this award.  To be a captain following two generals and an ambassador is daunting but I’ll do my best. Afghans have been brutalized by war for 30 years.  They crave peace and Read More…

Uncategorized

A Fragmented Force: Rebuilding the Afghan Army

A report by Reuters published on May 20, 2010, asserts that NATO has intensified its training of Afghan forces with the aim of reforming the Afghan National Army (ANA), a force which up to now inspired little confidence from the Afghan population. According to US Lieutenant-General William Caldwell, by aiming to decrease the high drop-out Read More…

Uncategorized

Finland’s NATO Debate

Finland’s relationship with NATO has a long and complicated history. Despite actively taking part in its activities and offering support for the Alliance, the Finnish government all the same rejects to apply for a membership in the organization in line with popular opinion, while retaining an option of applying in the future. Historical context At Read More…