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NATO’s quest for ‘united strategy’

London: A major debate is now in offing in the EU ands NATO about relations with Russia in the wake of Moscow’s actions in Georgia and South Ossetia.

This is highlighted by the meeting of 26 NATO Foreign Ministers at its headquarters in Brussels, where they stand divided to evolve a ‘united strategy’ to confront Russia.

The Foreign Ministers would attempt to overcome divisions as the U.S., Britain and many Eastern European countries are pressing for a “tough stance,” while France and Germany are reluctant to alienate Russia.

In what is rated as NATO’s “weightiest” session in years, the thrust is to find a ‘united’ response to deal with Russia and also to ensure Moscow is not alienated.

Some countries within the alliance are advocating offering direct military aid to Georgia while others, including Greece and Turkey are very reluctant top back this strategy.

They stated that such a strategy could be put forth by individual countries on their own without involving NATO. Georgia wants to join NATO but at the April summit in Bucharest, the members did not put Georgia’s application on fast-track.

For now, NATO countries have offered to airlift “humanitarian” supplies to Georgia.

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