the NATO is considering a stronger presence in the Baltic States and Poland if Russia does not withdraw its troops from Belarus after joint military maneuvers. The transfer of further NATO troops to these countries is possible, said Rob Bauer, Dutch admiral and chairman of the NATO military committee on Monday. “Yes, we’re looking at it.” There could be changes as a result of current developments. “And of course it is heavily dependent on whether the Russian troops in Belarus remain in Belarus.” Russia and Belarus to have from February 10th to 20th one joint maneuvers on the Ukrainian border scheduled. According to NATO, 30,000 Russian soldiers and heavy equipment were transferred there.
In addition, Russia has meanwhile stationed more than 100,000 soldiers on the eastern border with Ukraine. The West fears an invasion of Ukraine, which the government in Moscow rejects. However, Russia has demanded security guarantees, including a commitment from NATO that Ukraine would not be admitted to the alliance. NATO rejected this. However, NATO has in turn transferred 3,000 soldiers to Poland and Romania. Germany indicated a troop reinforcement in Lithuania.