NATO

NATO was founded in 1949. NATO, or the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, was formed to guarantee the freedom and security of its members through political and military means. Its primary purpose, especially during the Cold War, was to counter the perceived threat from the Soviet Union and the Warsaw Pact In 1991 both the Soviet Union and the Warsaw Pact collapsed and the need for NATO no longer existed. NATO has a budget of $4.7 billion and the US pays 16% even though there are 32 countries involved. In addition, the US supplies 38% of the troops. This is typical of government organizations. Once they are started it is difficult to stop them. Every time a budget item is cut, those who are affected scream the loudest and the squeaky wheel gets the oil. The same thing is happening as DOGE makes cuts in the US budget. Many people are unaware that Article 5 of the treaty obligates all NATO member to assist any member that is attacked. If Russia invaded Estonia the US would have to respond. Most Americans could not find Estonia on the map and yet the US may have to defend that country.