<p>Germany will be permanently stationing 4,000 of its troops in NATO ally Lithuania to help secure the country’s eastern flank, Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said, while referring to the Russia-Ukraine war.</p>

<p>"Germany is ready to permanently station a robust brigade in Lithuania," Pistorius said during a visit to the Lithuanian capita, Vilnius, on Monday.</p>

<p>He said that facilities would first&nbsp;need to be built to accommodate the troops, state-run Deutsche Welle (DW) reported.</p>

<p>Berlin already leads NATO's battlegroup in&nbsp;Lithuania, a reinforced battalion of some 1,000 troops.</p>

<p>"We agree that the brigade will grow step-by-step as the infrastructure is established," Pistorius said, adding that such a deployment could not be completed within "a few months".</p>

<h2><strong>Long-pending demand</strong></h2>

<p>For long, Lithuania had sought the permanent presence of German troops in the country, which borders the Russian region of Kaliningrad.</p>

<p>But Germany resisted permanently stationing its brigade in Lithuania, arguing that the troops could be rapidly deployed from bases in Germany.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We agree that the brigade will grow step-by-step as the infrastructure is established," Pistorius said, adding that such a deployment could not be completed within "a few months".</p>

<p>Pistorius stressed that the deployment should be compatible with NATO's (&nbsp;North Atlantic Treaty Organisation) regional plans detailing how it would respond to a Russian attack.</p>

<h2><strong>Better Infrastructure</strong></h2>

<p>In response, Lithuania's President Gitanas Nauseda said he was the required infrastructure is expected to be in place by 2026.</p>

<p>"We are simplifying the procedures...in order to be able to finalize the building of infrastructure by 2026," he said. "But I will not be angry if the minister of defence will finalise in 2025."</p>

<p>In June 2022, Berlin pledged to have a full brigade ready to defend Vilnius in case of an attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-knew-about-wagner-rebellion-but-kept-it-secret-from-most-allies-reports-609144">US knew about Wagner's rebellion plans but kept it secret from most allies</a></p>

<p>Currently, only the brigade's command post with about 20 German soldiers are in Rukla, Lithuania. The rest remain at various locations within Germany.</p>

<h2><strong>NATO chief welcomes move</strong></h2>

<p>NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg though welcomed Germany's announcement, he rejected calls for an immediate bolstering of troops along the alliance's eastern flank in response to the mutiny in Russia.</p>

<p>"It's not all about presence, it's all about the ability to have early warnings and indications, and then react quickly if there is a need - and this exercise demonstrates exactly that," he said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ex-us-president-donald-trump-flaunts-about-keeping-classified-documents-in-new-audio-clip-609063">Donald Trump flaunts about keeping classified documents in new audio clip</a></p>

<p>NATO leaders will meet for a summit in Vilnius on July 11-12.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

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Germany will be permanently stationing 4,000 of its troops in NATO ally Lithuania to help secure the country’s eastern flank, Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said, while referring to the Russia-Ukraine war.

Germany will be permanently stationing 4,000 of its troops in NATO ally Lithuania to help secure the country’s eastern flank, Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said, while referring to the Russia-Ukraine war. "Germany is ready to permanently station a robust brigade in Lithuania," Pistorius said during a visit to the Lithuanian capita, Vilnius, on Monday. He said that facilities would first need to be built to accommodate the troops, state-run Deutsche Welle (DW) reported. Berlin already leads NATO's battlegroup in Lithuania, a reinforced battalion of some 1,000 troops. "We agree that the brigade will grow step-by-step as the infrastructure is established," Pistorius said, adding that such a deployment could not be completed within "a few months". Long-pending demand For long, Lithuania had sought the permanent presence of German troops in the country, which borders the Russian region of Kaliningrad. But Germany resisted permanently stationing its brigade in Lithuania, arguing that the troops could be rapidly deployed from bases in Germany. "We agree that the brigade will grow step-by-step as the infrastructure is established," Pistorius said, adding that such a deployment could not be completed within "a few months". Pistorius stressed that the deployment should be compatible with NATO's ( North Atlantic Treaty Organisation) regional plans detailing how it would respond to a Russian attack. Better Infrastructure In response, Lithuania's President Gitanas Nauseda said he was the required infrastructure is expected to be in place by 2026. "We are simplifying the procedures...in order to be able to finalize the building of infrastructure by 2026," he said. "But I will not be angry if the minister of defence will finalise in 2025." In June 2022, Berlin pledged to have a full brigade ready to defend Vilnius in case of an attack. Also read | US knew about Wagner's rebellion plans but kept it secret from most allies Currently, only the brigade's command post with about 20 German soldiers are in Rukla, Lithuania. The rest remain at various locations within Germany. NATO chief welcomes move NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg though welcomed Germany's announcement, he rejected calls for an immediate bolstering of troops along the alliance's eastern flank in response to the mutiny in Russia. "It's not all about presence, it's all about the ability to have early warnings and indications, and then react quickly if there is a need - and this exercise demonstrates exactly that," he said. Also read | Donald Trump flaunts about keeping classified documents in new audio clip NATO leaders will meet for a summit in Vilnius on July 11-12. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

With eyes on Russia, Germany to permanently station 4,000 troops in Lithuania

Thousands of individuals gathered & camped near NATO’s Ramstein Air Base. Demonstrators called for peace & demanded US military withdraw from Germany. The event lasting from June 18 to 25 focused on Ramstein’s role in Ukraine Crisis. Protesters believe that NATO’s Ramstein Air Base has contributed to the escalating tensions.

Why is NATO’s Ramstein Air Base in Germany facing protest?

Germany on Monday said it was prepared to station 4,000 troops in Lithuania after the Baltic nation called on NATO to strengthen its eastern flank. "Germany is ready to permanently station a robust brigade in Lithuania," Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said on a visit to Vilnius, conditioned on the "necessary infrastructure" and "compatibility with NATO plans".

Germany set to station 4,000 troops permanently in Lithuania

<p>US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday encouraged Turkey to support Sweden's bid for membership in NATO. Blinken was meeting Turkey's new Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. Turkey has objected to Sweden's bid to join the Western military alliance due to security concerns. Current NATO members hope that Sweden will become a member in time for a mid-July summit in Vilnius.</p>

<p>State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said that Blinken met Fidan on the sidelines of the Ukraine Recovery Summit in London. Blinken stressed the importance of NATO unity at a critical time when Russia has invaded Ukraine.</p>

<p>Blinken welcomed Ankara's support for Kyiv and its work on the grain deal which enables exports of Ukrainian foodgrains from Black Sea ports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The secretary of state urged Turkey last month to immediately finalise Sweden's accession to the bloc. Sweden and Finland reversed their decades-old policy of non-alignment last year and applied for NATO membership after Russia's invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | UK unveils $3 billion backing for Ukraine reconstruction</strong></p>

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<p>Finland joined NATO in April but Turkey continues to block Sweden's membership.</p>

<p>Just last week Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said that Sweden should not expect green light from Ankara at the Vilnius summit unless it prevents anti-Turkey protests in Stockholm.</p>

<p>Turkey says Sweden harbours members of militant groups it considers to be terrorists. Sweden recently introduced a new law to make it harder to finance or support terrorist groups.</p>

<p>On Wednesday, Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom said that the Turkish parliament should start ratification of Sweden's bid as Stockholm has now met its obligations under a deal with Ankara.</p>

<p>Blinken and Fidan were in London to attend the conference on Ukraine at which allies were due to pledge billions of dollars in economic and reconstruction aid. Fidan said he was there to demonstrate Turkey's support for Ukraine.</p>

<p>"The truth is we may not see eye to eye on every issue, but our longstanding alliance within NATO and other platforms compels us to continue to work together," Fidan said in a video released by the Turkish foreign ministry.</p>

<p>Turkey's former intelligence chief, Fidan was appointed by Erdogan this month after his May election victory.</p>

<h2><strong>US bombers in Sweden</strong></h2>

<p>On Wednesday, US bomber jets landed in Sweden for the first time for a training exercise.</p>

<p>Two American B-1B Lancers landed at Lulea-Kallax airport in northern Sweden on Monday, June 19, the military said.</p>

<p>"We are carrying out a joint exercise, both the air force and the army, with the Bomber Task Force," air force spokeswoman Louise Levin told AFP.</p>

<p>She reportedly did not provide information on how long would the exercises last.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-to-shoot-down-three-drones-outside-moscow-calls-it-an-attack-by-ukraine-606929">Russia claims to have shot down three drones outside Moscow, calls it an attack by Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<p>The military said in a statement that "for the first time in modern times US bomber planes have landed in Sweden".</p>

<p>"In these uncertain times and while waiting for NATO membership it is important to have strong partners."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><em>You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form"><strong>here</strong></a>.</em></p>

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US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday encouraged Turkey to support Sweden's bid for membership in NATO. Blinken was meeting Turkey's new Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday encouraged Turkey to support Sweden's bid for membership in NATO. Blinken was meeting Turkey's new Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. Turkey has objected to Sweden's bid to join the Western military alliance due to security concerns. Current NATO members hope that Sweden will become a member in time for a mid-July summit in Vilnius. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said that Blinken met Fidan on the sidelines of the Ukraine Recovery Summit in London. Blinken stressed the importance of NATO unity at a critical time when Russia has invaded Ukraine. Blinken welcomed Ankara's support for Kyiv and its work on the grain deal which enables exports of Ukrainian foodgrains from Black Sea ports. The secretary of state urged Turkey last month to immediately finalise Sweden's accession to the bloc. Sweden and Finland reversed their decades-old policy of non-alignment last year and applied for NATO membership after Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Watch | UK unveils $3 billion backing for Ukraine reconstruction × Finland joined NATO in April but Turkey continues to block Sweden's membership. Just last week Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said that Sweden should not expect green light from Ankara at the Vilnius summit unless it prevents anti-Turkey protests in Stockholm. Turkey says Sweden harbours members of militant groups it considers to be terrorists. Sweden recently introduced a new law to make it harder to finance or support terrorist groups. On Wednesday, Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom said that the Turkish parliament should start ratification of Sweden's bid as Stockholm has now met its obligations under a deal with Ankara. Blinken and Fidan were in London to attend the conference on Ukraine at which allies were due to pledge billions of dollars in economic and reconstruction aid. Fidan said he was there to demonstrate Turkey's support for Ukraine. "The truth is we may not see eye to eye on every issue, but our longstanding alliance within NATO and other platforms compels us to continue to work together," Fidan said in a video released by the Turkish foreign ministry. Turkey's former intelligence chief, Fidan was appointed by Erdogan this month after his May election victory. US bombers in Sweden On Wednesday, US bomber jets landed in Sweden for the first time for a training exercise. Two American B-1B Lancers landed at Lulea-Kallax airport in northern Sweden on Monday, June 19, the military said. "We are carrying out a joint exercise, both the air force and the army, with the Bomber Task Force," air force spokeswoman Louise Levin told AFP. She reportedly did not provide information on how long would the exercises last. Also Read | Russia claims to have shot down three drones outside Moscow, calls it an attack by Ukraine The military said in a statement that "for the first time in modern times US bomber planes have landed in Sweden". "In these uncertain times and while waiting for NATO membership it is important to have strong partners." (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Blinken meets new Turkish foreign minister, urges support for Sweden's NATO bid

Amid Africa's peace mission for Ukraine comes the NATO Chief's latest assertion that Ukraine has the right to liberate its own land after over 400 Days of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The Ukrainian forces have recaptured a village in one of the most heavenly areas of a Russian-occupied South. Keep watching to know more.

Ukraine: New village recaptured in the south | Russia-Ukraine War

United States' supreme military commander has now made a statement that may now go down well with Ukraine's war-time leader Zelensky. He remarked Ukraine will not have it easy to join NATO. The statement comes ahead of the NATO summit to be held in Lithuanian capital city of Vilnius in July.

Biden says Ukraine won't have it easy to join NATO

NATO defense ministers failed on Friday to reach an agreement over new plans on how the alliance would respond to a Russian attack, and one diplomat blamed Turkey for blocking them.

NATO meeting fails to approve first defense plans since Cold War | Latest News

<p>NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg is likely to be asked to continue in his role for another year, according to an anonymous source familiar with the discussions and a US official, both quoted by Reuters news agency.&nbsp;The US official, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated that the Biden administration is increasingly open to the idea of Stoltenberg staying on, as there is currently no consensus within the alliance regarding his replacement.</p>

<p>"The (Biden) administration is coming around (to) the idea of Stoltenberg staying on for another year. It doesn't look like there is consensus at the moment within the alliance on his replacement," the source said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Stoltenberg leaves replacement decision to alliance members</strong></h2>

<p>Jens Stoltenberg stated on Thursday that it is ultimately up to the member countries of the alliance to decide whether they want to replace him. As discussions take place among NATO's 31 nations, the search for a successor to the position of secretary general is underway in preparation for an upcoming summit of leaders in Vilnius, Lithuania.</p>

<p>“When it comes to my successor that is an issue to be decided by the 31 allies,” Stoltenberg said at a meeting of NATO defence ministers in Brussels. “I’m responsible for all decisions that this alliance has to take except one, and that is about my future, that is for 31 allies to decide.”</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-achieves-historic-milestone-launches-41-satellites-in-single-mission-setting-new-record-605522">China achieves historic milestone: Launches 41 satellites in single mission, setting new record</a></p>

<p>Stoltenberg has been leading the Western military alliance since 2014 and his term has already been extended by a year due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Now, with his tenure drawing to a close, NATO members are deliberating on the future leadership of the alliance.</p>

<p>The alliance has encountered difficulties in deciding on a replacement ahead of an upcoming mid-July summit in Lithuania.</p>

<p>Stoltenberg, who has already had his term extended three times, is set to step down in September after serving as secretary-general for nine years. He enjoys broad support within the alliance and is regarded as an effective leader.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uganda-25-students-killed-in-overnight-militant-attack-605495">Uganda: 25 students killed in overnight militant attack</a></p>

<p>With the summit in Vilnius approaching, the likelihood of Stoltenberg being asked to extend his tenure for a fourth time has grown. NATO allies are concerned about displaying disunity while the alliance continues to respond to Russia's actions in Ukraine.</p>

<p>Although Stoltenberg previously mentioned in February that he was not seeking a further extension, he has not disclosed his response if asked by NATO members to stay on.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Whoever assumes the role of NATO secretary general will face the challenge of maintaining unity among allies in supporting Ukraine while also preventing any escalation that could draw NATO into direct conflict with Russia.</p>

<h2><strong>Other potential candidates</strong></h2>

<p>While British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace has openly expressed his interest in the position, there is also a push from some governments to appoint the first female NATO secretary general. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has emerged as a serious contender in this regard.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | China targets ‘unity in thought’ with campaign on Xi’s philosophy</strong></p>

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<p>However, Frederiksen recently voiced support for Stoltenberg staying on, considering it a favourable solution. She met with US President Joe Biden in Washington earlier this month, and Stoltenberg also visited the White House for talks with Biden.</p>

<p>According to the source quoted by Reuters, US officials believe that there are several potential candidates, and Biden holds high regard for all of them, including Denmark's prime minister.&nbsp;The source added that Biden believes Stoltenberg has done an exceptional job during a challenging period, a sentiment shared by many other NATO allies.</p>

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NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg is likely to be asked to continue in his role for another year, according to an anonymous source familiar with the discussions and a US official, both quoted by Reuters news agency.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg is likely to be asked to continue in his role for another year, according to an anonymous source familiar with the discussions and a US official, both quoted by Reuters news agency. The US official, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated that the Biden administration is increasingly open to the idea of Stoltenberg staying on, as there is currently no consensus within the alliance regarding his replacement. "The (Biden) administration is coming around (to) the idea of Stoltenberg staying on for another year. It doesn't look like there is consensus at the moment within the alliance on his replacement," the source said. Stoltenberg leaves replacement decision to alliance members Jens Stoltenberg stated on Thursday that it is ultimately up to the member countries of the alliance to decide whether they want to replace him. As discussions take place among NATO's 31 nations, the search for a successor to the position of secretary general is underway in preparation for an upcoming summit of leaders in Vilnius, Lithuania. “When it comes to my successor that is an issue to be decided by the 31 allies,” Stoltenberg said at a meeting of NATO defence ministers in Brussels. “I’m responsible for all decisions that this alliance has to take except one, and that is about my future, that is for 31 allies to decide.” Also Read | China achieves historic milestone: Launches 41 satellites in single mission, setting new record Stoltenberg has been leading the Western military alliance since 2014 and his term has already been extended by a year due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Now, with his tenure drawing to a close, NATO members are deliberating on the future leadership of the alliance. The alliance has encountered difficulties in deciding on a replacement ahead of an upcoming mid-July summit in Lithuania. Stoltenberg, who has already had his term extended three times, is set to step down in September after serving as secretary-general for nine years. He enjoys broad support within the alliance and is regarded as an effective leader. Also Read | Uganda: 25 students killed in overnight militant attack With the summit in Vilnius approaching, the likelihood of Stoltenberg being asked to extend his tenure for a fourth time has grown. NATO allies are concerned about displaying disunity while the alliance continues to respond to Russia's actions in Ukraine. Although Stoltenberg previously mentioned in February that he was not seeking a further extension, he has not disclosed his response if asked by NATO members to stay on. Whoever assumes the role of NATO secretary general will face the challenge of maintaining unity among allies in supporting Ukraine while also preventing any escalation that could draw NATO into direct conflict with Russia. Other potential candidates While British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace has openly expressed his interest in the position, there is also a push from some governments to appoint the first female NATO secretary general. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has emerged as a serious contender in this regard. Watch | China targets ‘unity in thought’ with campaign on Xi’s philosophy × However, Frederiksen recently voiced support for Stoltenberg staying on, considering it a favourable solution. She met with US President Joe Biden in Washington earlier this month, and Stoltenberg also visited the White House for talks with Biden. According to the source quoted by Reuters, US officials believe that there are several potential candidates, and Biden holds high regard for all of them, including Denmark's prime minister. The source added that Biden believes Stoltenberg has done an exceptional job during a challenging period, a sentiment shared by many other NATO allies. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Stoltenberg expected to be asked to extend another term as NATO chief amid replacement challenges

<p>The Canadian defence minister said on Friday (June 16) that the country is planning to bolster its forces in Latvia by deploying 15 Leopard 2A4M tanks. The move is being made as part of NATO efforts to build a combat-capable brigade in a country which has a border with Russia.</p>

<p>Defence Minister Anita Anand said that the army tank squadron will be fully deployed by fall. She was speaking to reporters from Brussels.</p>

<p>"This will significantly boost the capabilities of the Canada-led NATO battle group in Latvia, ensuring its continued ability to protect the eastern flank of our alliance," Anand said.</p>

<p>Canada has 800 members of its armed forces in Latvia. It is its largest foreign military deployment. The NATO battle group in the European country is made up of contributions from 11 nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Saudi has maintained a cautious stance</strong></p>

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<p>In 2016, NATO decided to boost its military presence in the eastern regions of the alliance as a "deterrence and defence posture".&nbsp;</p>

<p>A year ago, Canada, Latvia and their NATO partners agreed to bolster the force to a brigade.</p>

<p>Canada is also working alongside Latvia to train Ukrainian junior officers on intelligence reconnaissance and battle planning.</p>

<p>Canada has one of the world's largest Ukrainian diaspora. It has been a vocal supporter of Ukraine in its war with Russia. Canada has supplied military and financial assistance to Kyiv since the Russian invasion started in the year 2022.</p>

<h2><strong>Fresh military aid to Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>Canada is also a founding member of NATO. Canadian PM Justin Trudeau has visited war-time Kyiv twice. Last week, he pledged additional military aid of USD 378.5 million.</p>

<p>"Let me be clear. Canada and all NATO allies will always defend every inch of NATO territory, and we are deploying the necessary capabilities and personnel to make good on that promise," Canadian Defence Minister Anand said.</p>

<p>She spoke with reporters in Ottawa virtually. Brussels hosted meetings of NATO defence ministers on Thursday and Friday.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blasts-air-raid-sirens-greet-african-peace-mission-leaders-visiting-kyiv-605173">Blasts, air raid sirens greet African ‘peace mission’ leaders visiting Kyiv</a></strong></p>

<p>Anand expressed confidence in current NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg. When asked whom did Canada support as the new NATO chief, Anand declined to give a name.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Stoltenberg's term has already been prolonged three times, and he is due to step down in September after nine years as secretary-general of the military alliance, which has assumed even greater importance since Russia's invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<p>"I have full confidence in Secretary General Stoltenberg's leadership," Anand said. "He has been a very steady hand during a time of intensity in Europe and in the global strategic environment."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The Canadian defence minister said on Friday (June 16) that the country is planning to bolster its forces in Latvia by deploying 15 Leopard 2A4M tanks. The move is being made as part of NATO efforts to build a combat-capable brigade in a country which has a border with Russia.

The Canadian defence minister said on Friday (June 16) that the country is planning to bolster its forces in Latvia by deploying 15 Leopard 2A4M tanks. The move is being made as part of NATO efforts to build a combat-capable brigade in a country which has a border with Russia. Defence Minister Anita Anand said that the army tank squadron will be fully deployed by fall. She was speaking to reporters from Brussels. "This will significantly boost the capabilities of the Canada-led NATO battle group in Latvia, ensuring its continued ability to protect the eastern flank of our alliance," Anand said. Canada has 800 members of its armed forces in Latvia. It is its largest foreign military deployment. The NATO battle group in the European country is made up of contributions from 11 nations. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Saudi has maintained a cautious stance × In 2016, NATO decided to boost its military presence in the eastern regions of the alliance as a "deterrence and defence posture". A year ago, Canada, Latvia and their NATO partners agreed to bolster the force to a brigade. Canada is also working alongside Latvia to train Ukrainian junior officers on intelligence reconnaissance and battle planning. Canada has one of the world's largest Ukrainian diaspora. It has been a vocal supporter of Ukraine in its war with Russia. Canada has supplied military and financial assistance to Kyiv since the Russian invasion started in the year 2022. Fresh military aid to Ukraine Canada is also a founding member of NATO. Canadian PM Justin Trudeau has visited war-time Kyiv twice. Last week, he pledged additional military aid of USD 378.5 million. "Let me be clear. Canada and all NATO allies will always defend every inch of NATO territory, and we are deploying the necessary capabilities and personnel to make good on that promise," Canadian Defence Minister Anand said. She spoke with reporters in Ottawa virtually. Brussels hosted meetings of NATO defence ministers on Thursday and Friday. Also Read | Blasts, air raid sirens greet African ‘peace mission’ leaders visiting Kyiv Anand expressed confidence in current NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg. When asked whom did Canada support as the new NATO chief, Anand declined to give a name. Stoltenberg's term has already been prolonged three times, and he is due to step down in September after nine years as secretary-general of the military alliance, which has assumed even greater importance since Russia's invasion of Ukraine. "I have full confidence in Secretary General Stoltenberg's leadership," Anand said. "He has been a very steady hand during a time of intensity in Europe and in the global strategic environment." (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Canada to send Leopard-2 tanks to bolster NATO in Latvia

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe - Zelensky thanks Poland for Ukraine's NATO bid, Russia bans gender reassignment surgery, US federal reserve pauses rate hikes, Cut Russia missile components: Zelensky's appeal, Over 7,500 Ukrainian troops killed or wounded: Russia.

Zelensky thanks Poland for Ukraine's NATO bid | Russia bans gender reassignment surgery

NATO is carrying out its biggest-ever air drill in Germany. 25 nations are participating along with the newest member Finland. This comes right after Ukraine started its much-anticipated counter-offensive against Russia. So what exactly is the purpose of these drills? Will NATO fight the war for Ukraine?

Gravitas: Will NATO fight Ukraine's war against Russia?

30 years ago Ukraine gave up its nuclear weapons in return for security assistance. Now the war-torn country wants Ironclad protection from its allies as it enters a pivotal stage in the war with Russia. But since Russia started its invasion of Ukraine, the Biden Administration is reportedly considering proposing an Israel model for Ukraine. Keep watching to know more in this interview with Security and Defense expert, David Dunn.

Allies attempt to aid Ukraine war | Russia-Ukraine War

Ukraine's much-anticipated counter-offensive is of course underway and it seems to be dealing a fair bit of a hand for the war-stroke nation something that even NATO has acknowledged. Yet, there is no end in sight for the back and forth between the two sides and the cost of the hundreds of lives that are in fact, being lost on the battlefield.

NATO Chief: Must ensure history does not repeat itself | Russia-Ukraine war

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg met with the US President Joe Biden and questioned if his term would be extended or not. During this meeting, Stoltenberg emphasised on how Ukraine is making progress in its counter-offensive against the Russian troops.

NATO Chief Jens Stoltenberg hailed by White House as his term coming to end | World DNA

<p>Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday said that Ankara won't change its approach towards Sweden's NATO membership bid at the summit of the Western alliance next month unless anti-Turkey protests stop in Stockholm.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Turkey cannot approach the NATO bid of Sweden positively while terrorists&nbsp;continue their protests in Stockholm, and the position of Turkey would be made clear once talks are again held with Swedish officials in Ankara on Wednesday," President Erdogan was quoted as saying to the reporters on a flight which returned from Azerbaijan on Tuesday.</p>

<p>The comments were made by Erdogan before the officials from Turkey, Sweden, Finland and NATO held talks in Ankara on Wednesday with the aim of trying to overcome objections of Turkey that have delayed the NATO membership bid of Sweden.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sweden-agrees-to-extradite-pro-kurdish-pkk-supporter-to-turkey-603643">Amid NATO membership bid, Sweden agrees to extradite pro-Kurdish PKK supporter to Turkey</a></p>

<p>“Sweden’s expectations don’t mean we’ll meet them,” said Erdogan, while speaking to the Turkish media. “Sweden must, first of all, eradicate what this terrorist organisation is doing. In this picture, we can’t have a positive approach," he added.</p>

<p>The remarks of Erdogan suggest his reluctance to approve NATO membership of Sweden which is likely to&nbsp;continue even after the upcoming summit of the alliance in Vilnius, Lithuania, next month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In April, Finland was given the approval to join NATO after Turkey ratified its bid in March.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Sweden compliant with Madrid agreement?</strong></h2>

<p>Sweden has continued to claim that it is in compliance with an agreement finalised at NATO’s summit in Madrid a year ago, which permitted the process to move ahead. On June 1, a new anti-terrorism law was enforced in Sweden, but Erdogan said that the country has not been able to anti-Turkey protests so far.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking on Sweden's legal changes, Erdogan stated, "This is not only a matter of a law amendment or a constitutional change. What is the job of the police there? They have legal and constitutional rights, they should exercise their rights. The police should prevent these (protests)."</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Italy's special forces rescue Turkish crew</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Effective Crackdown</strong></h2>

<p>Turkish President Erdogan appealed to the security forces of Sweden to carry out an effective crackdown on Kurdish militants to fully comply&nbsp;with the agreement signed in Madrid.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“There are rights already given to security forces under laws, the constitution. Use those rights,” Erdogan stated as he recalled the battle of Turkey against separatist Kurdish militants in southeast Turkey. “If you are not going to use those rights then where is NATO’s struggle against terrorism? NATO must solve this. Otherwise, we would not say ‘fine’ in Vilnius," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday said that Ankara won't change its approach towards Sweden's NATO membership bid at the summit of the Western alliance next month unless anti-Turkey protests stop in Stockholm.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday said that Ankara won't change its approach towards Sweden's NATO membership bid at the summit of the Western alliance next month unless anti-Turkey protests stop in Stockholm. "Turkey cannot approach the NATO bid of Sweden positively while terrorists continue their protests in Stockholm, and the position of Turkey would be made clear once talks are again held with Swedish officials in Ankara on Wednesday," President Erdogan was quoted as saying to the reporters on a flight which returned from Azerbaijan on Tuesday. The comments were made by Erdogan before the officials from Turkey, Sweden, Finland and NATO held talks in Ankara on Wednesday with the aim of trying to overcome objections of Turkey that have delayed the NATO membership bid of Sweden. ALSO READ | Amid NATO membership bid, Sweden agrees to extradite pro-Kurdish PKK supporter to Turkey “Sweden’s expectations don’t mean we’ll meet them,” said Erdogan, while speaking to the Turkish media. “Sweden must, first of all, eradicate what this terrorist organisation is doing. In this picture, we can’t have a positive approach," he added. The remarks of Erdogan suggest his reluctance to approve NATO membership of Sweden which is likely to continue even after the upcoming summit of the alliance in Vilnius, Lithuania, next month. In April, Finland was given the approval to join NATO after Turkey ratified its bid in March. Sweden compliant with Madrid agreement? Sweden has continued to claim that it is in compliance with an agreement finalised at NATO’s summit in Madrid a year ago, which permitted the process to move ahead. On June 1, a new anti-terrorism law was enforced in Sweden, but Erdogan said that the country has not been able to anti-Turkey protests so far. Speaking on Sweden's legal changes, Erdogan stated, "This is not only a matter of a law amendment or a constitutional change. What is the job of the police there? They have legal and constitutional rights, they should exercise their rights. The police should prevent these (protests)." WATCH | Italy's special forces rescue Turkish crew Effective Crackdown Turkish President Erdogan appealed to the security forces of Sweden to carry out an effective crackdown on Kurdish militants to fully comply with the agreement signed in Madrid. “There are rights already given to security forces under laws, the constitution. Use those rights,” Erdogan stated as he recalled the battle of Turkey against separatist Kurdish militants in southeast Turkey. “If you are not going to use those rights then where is NATO’s struggle against terrorism? NATO must solve this. Otherwise, we would not say ‘fine’ in Vilnius," he added. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Turkey won't support Sweden's NATO bid unless anti-Turkish protests are stopped: Erdogan

<p>North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) on Monday (June 12) kicked-off its largest air force deployment exercise in Europe in the alliance's history. It is to be a display of unity towards partners and potential threats like Russia.</p>

<p>The "Air Defender 23" exercise led by Germany will run till June 23. It will involve 250 military aircraft from 25 NATO and partner countries including Japan and Sweden. The latter is joining the alliance after years of maintaining neutrality.</p>

<p>The drills are aimed at boosting interoperability and preparedness to defend against drones and cruise missiles in case of an attack on cities, airports or sea ports. Up to 10,000 people will take part in the exercise.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russia Ukraine War: Ukraine claims Russia blew up another dam</strong></p>

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<p>Last week, Lieutenant General Ingo Gerhartz of the German Luftwaffe presented the plan. He said that "Air Defender" was conceived in 2018 in response to Russia's annexation of Crimea from Ukraine in 2014. Gerhartz maintained that the exercise was "not targeted at anyone".</p>

<p>He said that while NATO would defend "every centimetre" of its territory, the exercise would not "send any flights, for example, in the direction of Kaliningrad," the Russian enclave bordering alliance member states Poland and Lithuania. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are a defensive alliance and that is how this exercise is planned," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>US wants 'Mr Putin' to take note</strong></h2>

<p>The drills would show "beyond a shadow of a doubt the agility and the swiftness of our allied force," said Amy Gutmann, US ambassador to Germany. &nbsp;Gutmann said that "Air Defender 23" was intended to send a message to countries including Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I would be pretty surprised if any world leader was not taking note of what this shows in terms of the spirit of this alliance, which means the strength of this alliance, and that includes Mr Putin," she told reporters, referring to the Russian president.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"By synchronising together, we multiply our force."&nbsp;</p>

<p>NATO, a predominantly Western military alliance, was set up 75 years ago to check the influence of the Soviet Union.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-to-repel-attack-by-ukraine-on-black-sea-warship-603188">Russia claims it repelled attack by Ukraine on Black Sea warship</a></strong></p>

<p>After Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Finland and Sweden sought NATO membership. Both countries for years, had maintained the stance of neutrality to avoid conflict with Moscow.</p>

<p>An attack on any member country of NATO is considered an attack on all countries of the alliance.</p>

<p>The exercise will include operational and tactical-level training, primarily in Germany, but also in the Czech Republic, Estonia and Latvia. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz will visit pilots based at the Schleswig-Jagel airfield in northern Germany on Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) on Monday (June 12) kicked-off its largest air force deployment exercise in Europe in the alliance's history. It is to be a display of unity towards partners and potential threats like Russia.

North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) on Monday (June 12) kicked-off its largest air force deployment exercise in Europe in the alliance's history. It is to be a display of unity towards partners and potential threats like Russia. The "Air Defender 23" exercise led by Germany will run till June 23. It will involve 250 military aircraft from 25 NATO and partner countries including Japan and Sweden. The latter is joining the alliance after years of maintaining neutrality. The drills are aimed at boosting interoperability and preparedness to defend against drones and cruise missiles in case of an attack on cities, airports or sea ports. Up to 10,000 people will take part in the exercise. Watch | Russia Ukraine War: Ukraine claims Russia blew up another dam × Last week, Lieutenant General Ingo Gerhartz of the German Luftwaffe presented the plan. He said that "Air Defender" was conceived in 2018 in response to Russia's annexation of Crimea from Ukraine in 2014. Gerhartz maintained that the exercise was "not targeted at anyone". He said that while NATO would defend "every centimetre" of its territory, the exercise would not "send any flights, for example, in the direction of Kaliningrad," the Russian enclave bordering alliance member states Poland and Lithuania.  "We are a defensive alliance and that is how this exercise is planned," he said. US wants 'Mr Putin' to take note The drills would show "beyond a shadow of a doubt the agility and the swiftness of our allied force," said Amy Gutmann, US ambassador to Germany. Gutmann said that "Air Defender 23" was intended to send a message to countries including Russia. "I would be pretty surprised if any world leader was not taking note of what this shows in terms of the spirit of this alliance, which means the strength of this alliance, and that includes Mr Putin," she told reporters, referring to the Russian president. "By synchronising together, we multiply our force." NATO, a predominantly Western military alliance, was set up 75 years ago to check the influence of the Soviet Union. Also Read | Russia claims it repelled attack by Ukraine on Black Sea warship After Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Finland and Sweden sought NATO membership. Both countries for years, had maintained the stance of neutrality to avoid conflict with Moscow. An attack on any member country of NATO is considered an attack on all countries of the alliance. The exercise will include operational and tactical-level training, primarily in Germany, but also in the Czech Republic, Estonia and Latvia. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz will visit pilots based at the Schleswig-Jagel airfield in northern Germany on Friday. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

With eyes on Russia, NATO kicks off biggest-ever air drill in its history

<p>Sweden on Monday (June 12) agreed to the extradition of a man who was convicted of drug trafficking and is a self-proclaimed supporter of the pro-Kurdish PKK. This also comes ahead of a meeting with Turkish and Swedish officials over the latter's stalled NATO bid. Earlier this month, Sweden even agreed to establish temporary NATO bases on its soil before becoming a member of the military alliance.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Who is the man being extradited to Turkey</strong>?</h2>

<p>A Swedish Justice Ministry official, Ashraf Ahmed, told AFP that the government has granted “an extradition from Sweden regarding a 35-year-old Turkish citizen.” This also comes after the Supreme Court, earlier this year cleared the individual’s repatriation to Turkey, where he is also expected to serve the rest of his drug trafficking sentence.</p>

<p>The man, whose extradition was approved, had been sentenced in 2014 to four years and seven months in a Turkish prison for transporting a bag of cannabis. However, he was later released on parole and moved to Sweden, but was again reported arrested last year after a request from Turkish prosecutors.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sweden-cannot-accept-some-demands-of-turkiye-for-nato-membership-pm-550526">Sweden cannot accept some demands of Turkiye for NATO membership: PM</a></strong></p>

<p>The convicted drug trafficker who has not been named has since opposed the move and claimed that the real reason that Turkey wants him back is due to his links to the pro-Kurdish Peoples’ Democratic Party (HDP) and for having shown support for the PKK, reported AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, the news agency cited the court ruling against the man which noted that when asked the Turkish prosecutors if he was involved in any ongoing probes or charges linked to a “terrorist organisation” or “insulting the Turkish president,” the authorities from Ankara had denied.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>How is this related to Sweden’s NATO bid?</strong></h2>

<p>Turkey has stalled Sweden’s NATO bid for months now while accusing the country of being a haven for “terrorists.” This was also in reference to the members of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party, a group which has now been banned by Turkey.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sweden-awaits-turkiyes-approval-to-join-nato-550578">Sweden awaits Turkiye's approval to join NATO</a></strong></p>

<p>Additionally, Ankara has asked Stockholm to crack down on extremist groups and return dozens of people Turkey believes were involved in a failed 2016 coup and the decades-long Kurdish fight for an independent state.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier this year, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said they wouldn’t support Sweden for NATO membership this was after the Quran-burning incident in the Scandinavian nation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The incident in question took place in January when right-wing politician Rasmus Paludan, staged an event reportedly gave an hour-long speech against Islam and immigration and subsequently set fire to Islam’s holy book, Quran, outside the Turkish embassy in Stockholm.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-politician-burns-quran-during-protests-in-sweden-draws-condemnation-from-turkiye-554853/#ankaras-strong-condemnation-554864">In pics | Politician burns Quran during protests in Sweden draws condemnation from Turkiye</a></strong></p>

<p>The move had drawn strong condemnation from Ankara. Notably, Turkey, at the time was also facing pressure from NATO chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sweden-has-fulfilled-obligations-for-membership-says-nato-chief-to-erdogan-600473">Jens Stoltenberg</a> to give up its opposition to Sweden’s bid to become a member of the military alliance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ratification of any nation to join NATO requires a unanimous vote while Sweden’s bid has been blocked by Turkey and Hungary. Sweden and Finland applied last year to join NATO as a result of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and while Helsinki’s bid was accepted back in April Stockholm continues to struggle.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>NATO to establish bases in Sweden?</strong></h2>

<p>There is a chance that NATO will set up bases in Sweden before the country is even a part of the alliance, “The government has decided that the Swedish Armed Forces may undertake preparations with NATO and NATO countries to enable future joint operations,” said Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and Defence Minister Pal Jonson, last week.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/swedens-nato-membership-bid-gets-another-jolt-after-quran-burning-incident-outraged-turkey-555120">'Won't support Sweden's NATO membership', says Turkish President Erdogan</a></strong></p>

<p>In an opinion piece in the daily Dagens Nyheter, they also wrote, “The preparations may consist of temporary basing of foreign equipment and personnel on Swedish territory. The decision sends a clear signal to Russia and strengthens Sweden's defence.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
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Sweden on Monday (June 12) agreed to the extradition of a man who was convicted of drug trafficking and is a self-proclaimed supporter of the pro-Kurdish PKK. This also comes ahead of a meeting with Turkish and Swedish officials over the latter's stalled NATO bid.

Sweden on Monday (June 12) agreed to the extradition of a man who was convicted of drug trafficking and is a self-proclaimed supporter of the pro-Kurdish PKK. This also comes ahead of a meeting with Turkish and Swedish officials over the latter's stalled NATO bid. Earlier this month, Sweden even agreed to establish temporary NATO bases on its soil before becoming a member of the military alliance. Who is the man being extradited to Turkey? A Swedish Justice Ministry official, Ashraf Ahmed, told AFP that the government has granted “an extradition from Sweden regarding a 35-year-old Turkish citizen.” This also comes after the Supreme Court, earlier this year cleared the individual’s repatriation to Turkey, where he is also expected to serve the rest of his drug trafficking sentence. The man, whose extradition was approved, had been sentenced in 2014 to four years and seven months in a Turkish prison for transporting a bag of cannabis. However, he was later released on parole and moved to Sweden, but was again reported arrested last year after a request from Turkish prosecutors. ALSO READ | Sweden cannot accept some demands of Turkiye for NATO membership: PM The convicted drug trafficker who has not been named has since opposed the move and claimed that the real reason that Turkey wants him back is due to his links to the pro-Kurdish Peoples’ Democratic Party (HDP) and for having shown support for the PKK, reported AFP. Notably, the news agency cited the court ruling against the man which noted that when asked the Turkish prosecutors if he was involved in any ongoing probes or charges linked to a “terrorist organisation” or “insulting the Turkish president,” the authorities from Ankara had denied. How is this related to Sweden’s NATO bid? Turkey has stalled Sweden’s NATO bid for months now while accusing the country of being a haven for “terrorists.” This was also in reference to the members of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party, a group which has now been banned by Turkey. ALSO WATCH | Sweden awaits Turkiye's approval to join NATO Additionally, Ankara has asked Stockholm to crack down on extremist groups and return dozens of people Turkey believes were involved in a failed 2016 coup and the decades-long Kurdish fight for an independent state. Earlier this year, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said they wouldn’t support Sweden for NATO membership this was after the Quran-burning incident in the Scandinavian nation. The incident in question took place in January when right-wing politician Rasmus Paludan, staged an event reportedly gave an hour-long speech against Islam and immigration and subsequently set fire to Islam’s holy book, Quran, outside the Turkish embassy in Stockholm. ALSO READ | In pics | Politician burns Quran during protests in Sweden draws condemnation from Turkiye The move had drawn strong condemnation from Ankara. Notably, Turkey, at the time was also facing pressure from NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg to give up its opposition to Sweden’s bid to become a member of the military alliance. The ratification of any nation to join NATO requires a unanimous vote while Sweden’s bid has been blocked by Turkey and Hungary. Sweden and Finland applied last year to join NATO as a result of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and while Helsinki’s bid was accepted back in April Stockholm continues to struggle. NATO to establish bases in Sweden? There is a chance that NATO will set up bases in Sweden before the country is even a part of the alliance, “The government has decided that the Swedish Armed Forces may undertake preparations with NATO and NATO countries to enable future joint operations,” said Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and Defence Minister Pal Jonson, last week. ALSO READ | 'Won't support Sweden's NATO membership', says Turkish President Erdogan In an opinion piece in the daily Dagens Nyheter, they also wrote, “The preparations may consist of temporary basing of foreign equipment and personnel on Swedish territory. The decision sends a clear signal to Russia and strengthens Sweden's defence.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Amid NATO membership bid, Sweden agrees to extradite pro-Kurdish PKK supporter to Turkey

In Pics | NATO conducts its biggest-ever drill in Germany

The Air Defender exercise will last 10 days and involve up to 10,000 troops and 250 aircraft from 23 Nato member states. Sweden, which has applied to join the western military alliance, will also take part, along with Japan.

'This is intended to be defensive' NATO's largest ever European air drills

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: Sweden has said that it would allow NATO to use the bases of troops in its territory even before it joins the alliance. Swedish Prime Minister and Defense Minister said that a Swedish Armed Forces may undertake preparations with NATO and that the NATO countries will enable future joint operations. These preparations will consist of placing foreign equipment and personnel on Swedish territory on a temporary basis. Russia applied for NATO membership last year following Russia's invasion of Ukraine

Sweden: Will allow NATO to base troops in territory

The race to replace the current NATO boss Jens Stoltenberg is underway. This comes at a time when the military alliance faces multiple challenges from the Russia-Ukraine war to keeping the 31 bloc together. As per expert claims, Stoltenberg did a good job keeping the alliance together through multiple crises but who are the top contenders to replace him, keep watching to find out.

Race for NATO's next Secretary General | World News

Jens Stoltenberg to retire as NATO chief | World News

<p>France has rejected a proposal by NATO to open a liaison office in Japan. As per media reports, French officials are of the view that NATO’s presence in the East Asian region will distract it from its prime region of focus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>NATO’s Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg previously hinted that an office in Japan will help the military alliance counter the rising security threats from China. However, Paris is not keen on pursuing any plan which could put Europe-China ties in jeopardy.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Why is France opposing NATO’s planned office in Japan?</strong></h2>

<p>French officials believe that putting NATO’s focus away from the Atlantic region goes against the provisions of the military alliance. “NATO (stands for) North Atlantic, and both article V and article VI (in its statutes) clearly limit the scope to North Atlantic,” a French official was quoted as saying by several media reports.</p>

<p>“There is no NATO liaison office in any country in the region. If NATO needs situational awareness in the region it can use the embassies designated as point of contact,” the official added.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Who will be next NATO chief as Jen Stoltenberg to retire soon</strong></p>

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<p>Earlier, it was French President Emmanuel Macron who referred to the move as “a big mistake.” France’s opposition can stymie NATO’s plans for Japan as a unanimous approval of the North Atlantic Council is required.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Reactions from Japan and China</strong></h2>

<p>Japan declined to comment on Macron’s latest remarks, saying “deliberations” at various levels were still underway. “Various considerations are underway within NATO. At this point, I will refrain from commenting with prejudgment,” Japan’s top government spokesperson Hirokazu Matsuno said.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/india-a-nato-state-whose-gain-whose-loss-600030"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;India, a NATO state? Whose gain, whose loss?</strong></a></p>

<p>On the other hand, Beijing has blasted NATO for formulating plans that could “destabilise” the region. Wang Wenbin, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson, was quoted by Financial Times as saying that opening a NATO office in Japan will amount to “interfering in regional affairs and inciting bloc confrontation.” He said, “Asia lies beyond the geographical scope of the North Atlantic.”</p>

<h2><strong>Japan says ‘No’ to NATO</strong></h2>

<p>Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida last month said that his nation had no plans to join NATO, although he was aware of the plans of opening a liaison office in Tokyo. NATO, over the last few years, has expressed its concerns about China’s rising aggression in the Indo-Pacific region. &nbsp;However, France has hinted that it will no longer operate under the security umbrella of the US, and will seek strategic autonomy. Macron even suggested earlier this year that Europe must not become an American “vassal” while the French leader was visiting China.</p>

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France has rejected a proposal by NATO to open a liaison office in Japan. As per media reports, French officials are of the view that NATO’s presence in the East Asian region will distract it from its prime region of focus.

France has rejected a proposal by NATO to open a liaison office in Japan. As per media reports, French officials are of the view that NATO’s presence in the East Asian region will distract it from its prime region of focus. NATO’s Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg previously hinted that an office in Japan will help the military alliance counter the rising security threats from China. However, Paris is not keen on pursuing any plan which could put Europe-China ties in jeopardy. Why is France opposing NATO’s planned office in Japan? French officials believe that putting NATO’s focus away from the Atlantic region goes against the provisions of the military alliance. “NATO (stands for) North Atlantic, and both article V and article VI (in its statutes) clearly limit the scope to North Atlantic,” a French official was quoted as saying by several media reports. “There is no NATO liaison office in any country in the region. If NATO needs situational awareness in the region it can use the embassies designated as point of contact,” the official added. Watch | Who will be next NATO chief as Jen Stoltenberg to retire soon × Earlier, it was French President Emmanuel Macron who referred to the move as “a big mistake.” France’s opposition can stymie NATO’s plans for Japan as a unanimous approval of the North Atlantic Council is required. Reactions from Japan and China Japan declined to comment on Macron’s latest remarks, saying “deliberations” at various levels were still underway. “Various considerations are underway within NATO. At this point, I will refrain from commenting with prejudgment,” Japan’s top government spokesperson Hirokazu Matsuno said. Also read | India, a NATO state? Whose gain, whose loss? On the other hand, Beijing has blasted NATO for formulating plans that could “destabilise” the region. Wang Wenbin, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson, was quoted by Financial Times as saying that opening a NATO office in Japan will amount to “interfering in regional affairs and inciting bloc confrontation.” He said, “Asia lies beyond the geographical scope of the North Atlantic.” Japan says ‘No’ to NATO Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida last month said that his nation had no plans to join NATO, although he was aware of the plans of opening a liaison office in Tokyo. NATO, over the last few years, has expressed its concerns about China’s rising aggression in the Indo-Pacific region. However, France has hinted that it will no longer operate under the security umbrella of the US, and will seek strategic autonomy. Macron even suggested earlier this year that Europe must not become an American “vassal” while the French leader was visiting China. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

France gives thumbs down to NATO’s plans of opening liaison office in Japan

Tensions escalated in Northern Kosovo when ethnic Serbs clashed with the Kosovo police on the 26th of May. They were protesting the installation of ethnic Albanian mayors who were elected in last month's local elections, boycotted by the majority of ethnic Serbs. The situation remains tense as 30 soldiers were injured in clashes between ethnic Serbian demonstrators and NATO-led peacekeepers on the 29th of May. Mohammed Saleh brings you this report.

Violent clashes between ethnic Serbs and Kosovo police

British prime minister Rishi Sunak ahead of U.S trip this week has signal support for his defense secretary Ben Wallace as NATO's next chief when asked if he would push in Washington for Wallace's appointment Sunak did not directly answer but heaped praise on his 53-year-old cabinet colleague listening Ben does a fantastic job he's a great defense secretary this is a conversation that is happening amongst leaders around the world more generally and I'm sure it will continue to happen I would say Ben is widely respected amongst his colleagues around the world particularly for the role he's played in Ukraine and supporting Ukraine and and the Britain has always been a leading contributor to NATO.

Who will be next NATO chief as Jen Stoltenberg to retire soon

NATO Chief advises turkier to drop its opposition to Sweden's entry into the block on a visit to Istanbul stoltenberger that Sweden has taken concrete steps to address all of turkey's concerns turkey has expressed its opposition to Sweden's admission to the defense cooperation the Balkan nation has previously accused Stockholm of failing to take concrete steps to crack down on the elements turkey deems as an existential threat a concern Sweden has now fully taken care of Stockholm has seen important steps to align with turkey's prerequisites including amending their constitution ending an arms embargo and more importantly stepping up their counter-terrorism cooperation.

NATO Chief Jens Stoltenberg: Sweden has fulfilled obligations

<p>A recent United States congressional report released by a select committee on the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) stated "The United States should strengthen the NATO Plus arrangement to include India".&nbsp;</p>

<p>US wants India to be a part of NATO plus, a group allied with 'Western' military powers. India's inclusion in NATO Plus is being suggested to counter China and enhance the <a href="https://selectcommitteeontheccp.house.gov/sites/evo-subsites/selectcommitteeontheccp.house.gov/files/evo-media-document/ten-for-taiwan-pdf.pdf">deterrence for Taiwan</a>. The question is, does joining NATO benefit India or does it actually benefit the West?&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What is NATO Plus?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The North Atlantic Treaty Organization is a military alliance of 31 nations, mainly the US and some European countries. NATO Plus includes five more member nations considered allies of the US – namely: Australia, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand and Israel. And now the US is inviting India to be a part of this larger group which stands together against adversaries.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What does India gain from NATO?</strong></h2>

<p>The motto of NATO is, "One for all and all for one". This basically means, If you attack one member, you’ll face the combined wrath of them all. This, in an ideal world, would mean greater military backing for India in case it joins NATO Plus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India would also probably gain access to military tech advancements, and intelligence sharing between NATO countries&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The true cost of being a NATO member</strong></h2>

<p><strong>Breaking India – Russia ties:</strong> If India joins the US-led NATO alliance which is backing Ukraine in the current war with Russia, it will directly impact New Delhi's strong, established and deep ties with Moscow. This is exactly what the US is attempting relentlessly to achieve. The US wants to cut off Russia and gain India’s defence deals and benefit from its strategic location in the Indo-Pacific.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
<strong>Jeopardising India’s Strategic Autonomy:</strong> NATO membership may also affect India’s strategic autonomy over its nuclear arsenal. A European Parliament report on EU strategic autonomy 2013-2023 mentioned how European nations fear that <a href="https://www.europarl.europa.eu/RegData/etudes/BRIE/2022/733589/EPRS_BRI(2022)733589_EN.pdf">increasing their strategic autonomy may lead to constraints in free trade</a>.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
<strong>US military base in India?: </strong></p>

<p>Till now, India does not host any foreign military base on its turf – but joining NATO Plus would mean the US will eventually have a military base in India as well. Just look at the other NATO plus members, all of which are hosting US military bases today. (US military bases: JAPAN – 24, SOUTH KOREA – 15, AUSTRALIA – 2, ISRAEL – 1)<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Being part of NATO would essentially mean that India will get dragged into America’s conflicts. And India will do so, as not anything more than a follower or lackey of the US and this is a concern already expressed by France, a key Nato member state.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>"Is it in our interest to accelerate [a crisis] on Taiwan? No. The worse thing would be to think that we Europeans must become followers on this topic and take our cue from the US&nbsp;agenda and a Chinese overreaction," said French President Emmanuel Macron.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
The US&nbsp;congressional report is recommending joint plans between the US and its allies to enact <a href="https://selectcommitteeontheccp.house.gov/sites/evo-subsites/selectcommitteeontheccp.house.gov/files/evo-media-document/ten-for-taiwan-pdf.pdf">severe economic sanctions on China</a> for which it also wants India on its side.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But here comes the irony – that, while the US is preparing its allies for sanctions on China, its own trade with China, has actually surged in the previous year to an all-time high of $690.6Bn. Both Imports and Exports have increased. Imports from China have increased to $536.8bn and exports to China have increased to $153.8bn.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
So if India joins NATO on America’s recommendation...whose gain will it be?</p>

<p>Let me know in the comments.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

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A recent United States congressional report released by a select committee on the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) stated "The United States should strengthen the NATO Plus arrangement to include India".

A recent United States congressional report released by a select committee on the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) stated "The United States should strengthen the NATO Plus arrangement to include India". US wants India to be a part of NATO plus, a group allied with 'Western' military powers. India's inclusion in NATO Plus is being suggested to counter China and enhance the deterrence for Taiwan. The question is, does joining NATO benefit India or does it actually benefit the West? What is NATO Plus? The North Atlantic Treaty Organization is a military alliance of 31 nations, mainly the US and some European countries. NATO Plus includes five more member nations considered allies of the US – namely: Australia, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand and Israel. And now the US is inviting India to be a part of this larger group which stands together against adversaries. What does India gain from NATO? The motto of NATO is, "One for all and all for one". This basically means, If you attack one member, you’ll face the combined wrath of them all. This, in an ideal world, would mean greater military backing for India in case it joins NATO Plus. India would also probably gain access to military tech advancements, and intelligence sharing between NATO countries The true cost of being a NATO member Breaking India – Russia ties: If India joins the US-led NATO alliance which is backing Ukraine in the current war with Russia, it will directly impact New Delhi's strong, established and deep ties with Moscow. This is exactly what the US is attempting relentlessly to achieve. The US wants to cut off Russia and gain India’s defence deals and benefit from its strategic location in the Indo-Pacific. Jeopardising India’s Strategic Autonomy: NATO membership may also affect India’s strategic autonomy over its nuclear arsenal. A European Parliament report on EU strategic autonomy 2013-2023 mentioned how European nations fear that increasing their strategic autonomy may lead to constraints in free trade. US military base in India?: Till now, India does not host any foreign military base on its turf – but joining NATO Plus would mean the US will eventually have a military base in India as well. Just look at the other NATO plus members, all of which are hosting US military bases today. (US military bases: JAPAN – 24, SOUTH KOREA – 15, AUSTRALIA – 2, ISRAEL – 1) Being part of NATO would essentially mean that India will get dragged into America’s conflicts. And India will do so, as not anything more than a follower or lackey of the US and this is a concern already expressed by France, a key Nato member state. Watch this report: × "Is it in our interest to accelerate [a crisis] on Taiwan? No. The worse thing would be to think that we Europeans must become followers on this topic and take our cue from the US agenda and a Chinese overreaction," said French President Emmanuel Macron. The US congressional report is recommending joint plans between the US and its allies to enact severe economic sanctions on China for which it also wants India on its side. But here comes the irony – that, while the US is preparing its allies for sanctions on China, its own trade with China, has actually surged in the previous year to an all-time high of $690.6Bn. Both Imports and Exports have increased. Imports from China have increased to $536.8bn and exports to China have increased to $153.8bn. So if India joins NATO on America’s recommendation...whose gain will it be? Let me know in the comments. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India, a NATO state? Whose gain, whose loss?

<p>NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg on Sunday appealed to Turkey to give up its opposition to Sweden's bid to become a member of the US-led defence alliance, hoping that the accession of Stockholm would be finalised "as soon as possible".<br />
<br />
Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has been facing pressure to give the green light to NATO membership of Sweden ahead of a summit which will be scheduled in July in the Lithuanian capital Vilnius.<br />
<br />
"Membership will make Sweden safer but also make NATO and Turkey stronger," Stoltenberg said while speaking to journalists after holding talks with President Erdogan along with Turkey's newly appointed Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, who was earlier heading the intelligence agency in Istanbul.<br />
<br />
"I look forward to finalising Sweden's accession as soon as possible," he stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/india-a-nato-state-whose-gain-whose-loss-600030">India, a NATO state? Whose gain whose loss?</a></p>

<p>On Saturday, Stoltenberg participated in the event held to mark Erdogan's re-election, who again came to power to serve another five years. The lavish ceremony also saw the participation of dozens of world leaders in Ankara.<br />
<br />
Turkey, a NATO member, has protested against Sweden's admission to the military alliance. Turkey and Hungary are the only two countries of NATO which are left to ratify the membership bid.<br />
<br />
Finland joined NATO formally in April.</p>

<h2><strong>Anti-Turkey protests</strong></h2>

<p>Sweden was accused by Erdogan of being a haven for "terrorists" like the members of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), a group that Turkey and its Western allies have blacklisted.<br />
<br />
"Sweden has taken significant concrete steps to meet Turkey's concerns," Stoltenberg stated.<br />
<br />
"This includes amending the Swedish constitution, ending the arms embargo, and stepping up counter-terrorism operations including against the PKK. Sweden has fulfilled its obligations," he added.<br />
<br />
Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom also stated that Stockholm had fulfilled "all the commitments" to join NATO and appealed to Hungary and Turkey to permit his country into the alliance.<br />
<br />
Ankara has been displeased with anti-Erdogan and anti-Turkey protests in Stockholm.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;NATO prompted Turkey to act after May 30 violence, Turkey sends troops to Kosovo after unrest</strong></p>

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<p>The authorities in Sweden allowed a "No to NATO, No Erdogan Laws in Sweden" demonstration to take place in the city centre on Sunday.<br />
<br />
"Freedom of assembly and expression are core values in democratic societies. But we should remember why these are taking place," said Stoltenberg.<br />
<br />
"Organisers of these demonstrations want to block Sweden's accession to NATO and undermine its collaboration with Turkey against terrorism and weaken NATO. We should not allow them to succeed,” he added.</p>

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NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg on Sunday appealed to Turkey to give up its opposition to Sweden's bid to become a member of the US-led defence alliance, hoping that the accession of Stockholm would be finalised "as soon as possible".

NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg on Sunday appealed to Turkey to give up its opposition to Sweden's bid to become a member of the US-led defence alliance, hoping that the accession of Stockholm would be finalised "as soon as possible". Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has been facing pressure to give the green light to NATO membership of Sweden ahead of a summit which will be scheduled in July in the Lithuanian capital Vilnius. "Membership will make Sweden safer but also make NATO and Turkey stronger," Stoltenberg said while speaking to journalists after holding talks with President Erdogan along with Turkey's newly appointed Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, who was earlier heading the intelligence agency in Istanbul. "I look forward to finalising Sweden's accession as soon as possible," he stated. ALSO READ | India, a NATO state? Whose gain whose loss? On Saturday, Stoltenberg participated in the event held to mark Erdogan's re-election, who again came to power to serve another five years. The lavish ceremony also saw the participation of dozens of world leaders in Ankara. Turkey, a NATO member, has protested against Sweden's admission to the military alliance. Turkey and Hungary are the only two countries of NATO which are left to ratify the membership bid. Finland joined NATO formally in April. Anti-Turkey protests Sweden was accused by Erdogan of being a haven for "terrorists" like the members of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), a group that Turkey and its Western allies have blacklisted. "Sweden has taken significant concrete steps to meet Turkey's concerns," Stoltenberg stated. "This includes amending the Swedish constitution, ending the arms embargo, and stepping up counter-terrorism operations including against the PKK. Sweden has fulfilled its obligations," he added. Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom also stated that Stockholm had fulfilled "all the commitments" to join NATO and appealed to Hungary and Turkey to permit his country into the alliance. Ankara has been displeased with anti-Erdogan and anti-Turkey protests in Stockholm. WATCH | NATO prompted Turkey to act after May 30 violence, Turkey sends troops to Kosovo after unrest The authorities in Sweden allowed a "No to NATO, No Erdogan Laws in Sweden" demonstration to take place in the city centre on Sunday. "Freedom of assembly and expression are core values in democratic societies. But we should remember why these are taking place," said Stoltenberg. "Organisers of these demonstrations want to block Sweden's accession to NATO and undermine its collaboration with Turkey against terrorism and weaken NATO. We should not allow them to succeed,” he added. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Sweden 'has fulfilled obligations' for membership,  NATO chief tells Turkey's Erdogan

Following the unrest in the northern part of Kosovo NATO member Turkiye has planned to send Commandos to the country for peacekeeping. This is in response to a NATO request to join the alliance KFOR Peacekeeping Force. Turkiye's Defense Ministry on Saturday called for restraint followed by constructive dialogue in order to come to a resolution to the crisis.

NATO prompted Turkey to act after May 30 violence, Turkey sends troops to Kosovo after unrest

A U.S. Congress panel has mentioned that India should be made a part of NATO plus, a group allied with ‘Western’ military powers. India’s inclusion in NATO Plus is to counter China and enhance the deterrence for Taiwan. The question is, does joining NATO benefit India or does it actually benefit the West?

India, a NATO state? | Whose gain whose loss?

Why is the United States keen on making India part of the NATO plus grouping?

Should India join NATO plus?

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