For America’s European allies, NATO is the frontline of freedom – The Hill (blog)

As the Trump administration returns to business as usual following the presidents first overseas travel, we are left to review the outcomes and mitigate the fallout of his venture. Some foreign policy experts will focus on new possibilities in the Middle East, while others wonder of the impact that President Trump may have on future relations with Europe and NATO. One thing is very clear: despite the growing rift between the U.S. administration and our Western European allies, we need to meet the challenge of a resurgent Russia by re-energizing and expanding critical partnerships along the "front lines of freedom" countries.

These "front lines," comprised of the former Eastern bloc countries and Soviet satellite states such as Latvia, Estonia, Bulgaria and Ukraine, have played an essential role in promoting American interests since the early 1990s. A major influence on these countries' democratization is a program that receives little beltway fanfare: the National Guards State Partnership Program.

The partnerships bring allies to the U.S. for exercises and training and, perhaps most importantly in this day of Russian aggression, place our National Guard side-by-side with our democratic allies on the front lines. In this role, we make it clear that these small democracies - some only the size of Maryland - are not alone as they face the enormity of growing Russian aggression in the region.

It's no surprise, given the president's penchant for Russian favor, that the countries directly facing Moscow and its military head-on might wonder about their future and our commitment to these front lines of freedom. That is why I believe it is critical that the people of the United States reaffirm our commitment to this vital program. We must recommit ourselves to continued U.S. partnership and presence in the region through joint exercises and showing the U.S. flag. We must make the call to ensure that the military equipment of our National Guard and these partner nations is interoperable and compatible. All the commitment in the world would be rendered meaningless if we can't coordinate and maneuver effectively with our allies on the front lines.

What realistic steps can each of us take to help secure our allies and this important front line of freedom? Each of us can thank our National Guard for the important work that they do in this program. You also can support the program by speaking to your governor and congressional representatives and expressing the value that you place in facing Russian aggression. Be sure to tell them that more frequent National Guard exercises in those countries and up-to-date equipment for our National Guard and partner nations is critical.

President Trump is correct in pointing out to our NATO allies that freedom is not free, but we all should remember that it is more than a percentage of GDP for our allies in Europe it is truly the security of their backdoor as they sit on the frontline of freedom.

Todd A.Weileris a former assistant secretary of Defense under the Obama administration and deputy assistant secretary under President Clinton. He is a decorated combat veteran, currently consults on military and civilian personnel issues.

The views expressed by contributors are their own and are not the views of The Hill.

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For America's European allies, NATO is the frontline of freedom - The Hill (blog)