Both Russia and NATO member states are increasing their military presence and activities in the Arctic, and threat perceptions on both sides are intensifying, write Katarina Kertysova and Dr. Alexander Graef. Cooperative aerial observation, which lies at the heart of the Open Skies Treaty, has a useful role to play in mitigating military security risks and addressing environmental challenges in the region.
166 security experts from 20 countries call on leaders in the US, Russia and Europe to take a number of urgent actions in order to reduce the risks of military conflict between NATO and Russia.
The US is scheduled to withdraw from the Open Skies Treaty on November 22, against the wishes of a majority in Congress and on a questionable legal basis. Peter Jones argues the other Treaty members should “stop the clock” on the US withdrawal until the Biden Administration takes office.
Dr Alexander Graef assesses the current technical challenges and compliance issues facing the Open Skies Treaty and proposes six key recommendations ahead of the Treaty’s Review Conference in October.