Given the buildup of Russian troops near the border with Ukraine, NATO responded with the first concrete military action, increasing operational readiness of its 40,000-strong Response Force. The Alliance seeks to protect its Eastern European members. This was stated by a high-ranking NATO diplomat, Die Welt reports.
Quoting an unnamed senior NATO diplomat the newspaper reports that the “Very High Readiness Joint Group” (VJTF), which is part of the Rapid Deterrence Forces, must from Monday “be ready to deploy to the crisis area within five days,” while this period was seven days earlier.
The German newspaper added that the readiness of other units of the rapid response forces, such as the special forces and logistical support units, was also raised.
According to “Die Welt”, NATO took the decision in this regard last week by the North Atlantic Council, which represents all member states, although the newspaper stressed that the official spokesman of the alliance did not confirm this information, and only indicated that “NATO’s policy towards Russia remains consistent (which is represented in) defense and dialogue.”
Earlier, Allied Commander-in-Chief General Todd D. Walters called on NATO governments to reduce mobilization periods.
It is noted that operational readiness implies a period during which emergency services, including military equipment, should be ready for transfer by aircraft or helicopters.
In addition to the conflict in Ukraine, publication notes that the purpose of such measures is to improve the protection of the eastern member states (Poland, Romania, and the Baltic States), all of which are faced with a growing threat due to recent developments on the Russian-Ukrainian border.
A NATO spokesperson declined to publicly confirm the new decisions. He stated that Russia's significant military buildup in and around Ukraine is unfounded and undermines security in Europe. The official added that Allies have made it clear that Russia needs to be transparent, to reduce tensions, and that any further aggression would bear costs and consequences.
NATO's Russia policy of defense and dialogue remains consistent, the spokesperson said.
Since Russia's illegal annexation of Crimea in 2014, NATO has achieved the greatest strengthening of collective defense, including through the creation of multinational combat units in the eastern part of the Alliance.
NATO's actions are defensive, relevant, and in line with its international obligations, the spokesperson explained, adding that the bloc remains vigilant and will always take all measures required to defend the allies and protect them from any threat.