NATO Agrees on Response Plans for a Russian Attack

Three diplomats told Reuters on Monday that NATO member countries have reached an agreement on plans outlining how the alliance will respond to a Russian attack, overcoming a Turkish attempt to obstruct the agreement. This signifies a major shift, as it is the first time the alliance has established such plans since the end of the Cold War three decades ago. Turkey tried to hinder the agreement due to a drafting issue related to geographical locations such as Cyprus. One diplomat said to Reuters, "This is great for the alliance. Turkey had to concede and unlink the two issues." NATO leaders will meet in Vilnius on July 11 and 12 to discuss Sweden's membership and the future of the alliance's relationship with Ukraine. By outlining its regional plans, the alliance will also provide guidance to countries on how to upgrade their forces and logistical aspects. NATO officials state that "fully implementing the plans will take a few years," but they emphasize that the alliance could be ready for battle immediately if necessary.