Carmen Romero began her speech by referring to the three extraordinary summits held in Brussels over the past 24 hours, where various political leaders highlighted the key issues to be addressed at the Madrid Summit, modifying the initially planned agenda as a consequence of the conflict in Ukraine. The Russian invasion of Ukraine has shattered the foundations of Euro-Atlantic security and international stability that had been built since the end of the Cold War. Moreover, the conflict has posed a challenge to the values and norms that had provided security and stability in Europe.

One of the realities that has come to light is that the security of all citizens is no longer guaranteed. For this reason, NATO Heads of State and Government have committed to increasing investment in our security to ensure our protection, not only against the current threat but also for the future.

There are three factors that Putin did not anticipate when invading Ukraine. The first is the resilience of Ukrainian citizens, which shattered the Russian president’s expectations of a swift and decisive war. The second is the unprecedented unity demonstrated by the West, unseen in decades. Lastly, the firm response from both NATO and the European Union.

Before the armed conflict began, the last NATO-Russia Council meeting took place on January 12, 2022. Subsequently, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg proposed a schedule of meetings to the Russian Federation to discuss topics of common interest, including NATO-Russia relations, European security, risk reduction, transparency, and arms control. However, this proposal was not met with the same level of interest from Russia.

As a result of the conflict, Europe is facing a major humanitarian crisis and the challenge of rebuilding European security. However, Carmen Romero also highlighted other consequences of the war, such as the significant setback in cooperation and dialogue with Russia after years of progress and efforts since the end of the Cold War.

Another key topic in this extraordinary NATO Summit was China, to which NATO leaders sent a clear message: it must refrain from supporting Russia’s war efforts, from providing military and economic aid, and instead, use its influence with Moscow to promote an immediate and peaceful resolution.

To conclude her speech, Carmen Romero emphasized the importance of the upcoming Madrid Summit, where NATO’s new Strategic Concept will be approved. This document has two main objectives: first, to define the security challenges ahead, and second, to prepare for an increasingly unpredictable future. Additionally, it will reflect the evolving security environment, which is currently marked by growing strategic competition, instability, and volatility.

Marta Herranz

Communication Assistant, INCIPE