Barry Strauss, an expert on the history of warfare and professor of History at Cornell University, says that NATO’s proposed rapid-reaction force initially will increase tensions with Russia, but will ensure order and peace in Europe over the long run.

Strauss says:

“NATO is wise to create a new rapid-reaction force. A firm stand by NATO is a good thing.

“In the short term it will increase tension with Russia, but the long-term result will be to encourage Putin to limit his expansionist ambition. Russia’s annexation of Crimea and invasion of eastern Ukraine threatens the peace and stability of all Europe.

“It is important to defend the hard-won current order in Europe and to discourage further Russian adventurism. By mixing such firmness with continued diplomacy, NATO can remind Russia that, fundamentally, the two sides have every reason to be friends and to settle disputes peacefully. Peace through strength is a time-tested recipe for success.”

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