Crisis in Ukraine as a Challenge for NATO

Abstract

The paper focuses on the Ukraine crisis as a decision making dilemma challenging NATO’s cohesion and reliability. The challenge is determined both by internal (divergence of interests among the member states) and external factors (Russia’s policy aiming at regaining superpower status by i.a. breaking the West’s unity). In this view Ukraine is for Russia an instrument in a geopolitical game against the West, while for NATO it is a risk factor that demands strategic and long-term decisions.