Did NATO Break Its Promise To Russia?

Formed in the aftermath of World War II, NATO was designed to deter Soviet expansion, anchor American power in Europe, and prevent another catastrophic war. But from its very beginning, NATO has been more than just a military pact—it’s been a political balancing act between security, sovereignty, and influence. From the creation of Article 5 and the promise of collective defence, to Cold War tensions, nuclear deterrence, and post-9/11 operations, NATO has evolved far beyond its original purpose. It has expanded eastward, intervened beyond its borders, and faced internal divisions—from Charles de Gaulle’s partial withdrawal to modern debates over burden-sharing and U.S. dominance. Today, questions around NATO are more relevant than ever. Has it remained a defensive alliance, or become something more interventionist? Did it break promises to Russia? And without the United States, what does NATO actually look like? As war returns to Europe following Russian invasion of Ukraine, NATO has rediscovered its original purpose—but also faces new challenges that will shape its future. Bianca Nobilo deep dives into the history, contradictions, and enduring questions behind one of the world’s most powerful alliances.