Challenges for the Baltic Sea Regional Stability
Abstract
U.S. military presence in Europe after World War II played a significant role in maintaining deterrence against Soviet expansion and influence in Western Europe during the Cold War. After the collapse of the Soviet Union, most European countries reduced their military capabilities and put more attention on wellness and social security issues. The Balkan conflict showed that only U.S. forces in Europe had sufficient capability to intervene and stabilize the situation. Even after fighting two wars in South East Asia, the U.S. may be the only country capable of checking Russia's rising military power and nationalism. Cyber attacks, information operations and politically motivated statements show that Russia still has ambitions to expand her influence and control over the Baltic Sea region. Reduction of U.S. military presence in Europe might put the Baltic States in particular at risk of physical threat. This Paper describes what might be strategic implications for Baltic Sea regional security after a downsized U.S. military presence in Europe. It also proposes probable actions that should be taken by the Baltic States and NATO to continue successful deterrence against Russia.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 2013
- Accession Number
- ADA590267
Entities
People
- Raimundas Vaiksnoras
Organizations
- United States Army War College