British Air Commodore Andy Turk, now Deputy Commander of NATO’s Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS), recently shared insights about his 35-year military career and the growing tensions with Russia. Turk joined the Royal Air Force at 18, during the Cold War, when NATO’s nuclear role was crucial.
“We hoped for a peace dividend after the Cold War, but it’s clear Russia isn’t interested in that,” Turk stated. His eldest son is now considering joining the Air Force, motivated by the desire to make a difference.
Turk spoke aboard a NATO surveillance plane over the Baltic Sea, where crew members monitor Russian activities. Baltic nations like Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia have long depended on NATO for security. However, former U.S. President Donald Trump’s ties with Vladimir Putin have raised concerns about America’s commitment to defending Europe.
Trump has made it clear that Europe can no longer rely on automatic U.S. military support. This shift has left Baltic nations feeling vulnerable, especially as Putin continues to view them as part of Russia’s sphere of influence. Experts warn that if Putin succeeds in Ukraine, he may target the Baltics next, testing NATO’s resolve.
Estonia has already seen Russian provocations at its border. Egert Belitsev, head of Estonia’s border force, reported constant GPS jamming and surveillance from Russian guards. Estonia, Lithuania, and Poland are now seeking more flexibility to defend their borders, including reconsidering treaties on landmines and cluster munitions.
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Ian Bond from the Centre for European Reform believes Russia’s war-driven economy suggests that peace is unlikely. About 40% of Russia’s federal budget is now allocated to defense and security. “Russia is not preparing for peace,” Bond noted.
Analysts suggest that if Putin advances beyond Ukraine, he might target non-NATO countries like Moldova first to avoid direct NATO retaliation. However, since Sweden and Finland joined NATO, the Baltic Sea has become more secure under NATO’s control.
Turk’s reflection underscores the fragile security balance in Europe and the uncertain future of NATO’s role in protecting the continent from Russian aggression.
This article is originally published on .bbc.com/
