NATO and the Russo-Ukrainian war in the Black Sea

Abstract

At the 2024 Washington DC Summit, NATO identified the Black Sea and Western Balkans as regions of strategic importance, emphasizing its continued commitment to regional security through enhanced deterrence measures and regional cooperation. This article reflects this commitment by NATO's increased military presence, with deployments on the Eastern Flank and robust intelligence operations, aimed at countering Russian aggression and securing the territories of vulnerable allies such as the Baltic states, Poland, Romania, and Bulgaria. Moreover, the article underscores NATO’s success in maintaining the “Open Door” policy, highlighted by the accession of Finland and Sweden, as well as the geopolitical dynamics involving China, which views the Black Sea as a critical area for economic and security interests (particularly through its Belt and Road Initiative). The study concludes that NATO’s long-term strategy in the Black Sea must encompass both military deterrence and diplomatic support for Ukraine, enhance its strategic presence, particularly in maritime and naval capabilities to safeguard freedom of navigation and to secure vital Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs) and ensure the protection of its territorial integrity and sovereignty, while countering Russian disinformation and hybrid threats in the region.