Russia has long sought a presence in the Mediterranean, and thanks to its intervention in Syria, it now has one. But can it challenge NATO and its dominance? Not yet, says Elliott Simpson, but as tensions mount elsewhere, NATO should remain vigilant.
Author: Elliott Simpson
Last In, First Out: Two Decades in Afghanistan
Bagram Air Base – once the bastion of coalition forces in Afghanistan – is now empty of U.S. and NATO troops, bringing an effective end to their presence in the country. Elliott Simpson reflects on what should be acknowledged, and hopefully learned from their efforts over the past 20 years.
‘Global Britain’ in Practice
HMS Queen Elizabeth’s maiden voyage to the South China Sea is indicative of the UK’s new global posture. But is it spreading itself too thin? Elliott Simpson presents the pros and cons of the UK’s recent tilt to Asia, and to a modern military.
NATO’s Unsteady Southern Flank
Talks between two of NATO’s southernmost members don’t seem to be making progress, as Turkey and Greece seem as far apart as ever. Elliott Simpson examines the latest flare up between these unlikely allies, and its effect on the strength of NATO’s southern flank.
France and La Grande Muette
The latest appearance of right-wing extremism in Western militaries threatens norms governing the civil-military relationship in France. Elliott Simpson explores the severity of these events and the dangers of inaction.
Tblisi and NATO – Past, Present and an Uncertain Future
Despite Russia knocking at the door, Georgia is seeking to deepen its ties with the West and join NATO. However, to understand the present, and attempt to predict the future of Georgia’s relationship with the alliance, Elliott Simpson examines the events of 2008 and their aftermath.
Stockholm’s Decision: Examining Sweden’s Future with NATO
A recent boost in Swedish military spending, growing support by Swedish voters and government to join NATO, and heightened tensions with Russia all point to one question: Will Stockholm join the alliance? In this article, Elliott Simpson presents the case of Sweden and its relationship with NATO.