Russia’s military might in the Black Sea does not leave NATO any chance to win in the event of a possible confrontation, says columnist Mark Episkopos of The National Interest
The expert recalled a statement by Russian President Vladimir Putin, who noted that even the sinking of the British destroyer Defender by Russian ships would not start World War III.
“Putin’s reassurance may well be appropriate”, – said Episcopos.
The National Interest columnist noted that since the annexation of the peninsula Crimea to the Russian Federation, Moscow has been actively building up the Black Sea Fleet. In particular, it received three upgraded missile frigates Admiral Grigorovich and several Project 636 Varshavyanka submarines. Furthermore, the North Atlantic Alliance cannot count on support in the region.
“Turkey, as a member of NATO, has consistently hindered the alliance’s security objectives by seeking closer military and economic ties with Moscow. Ukraine, Romania and Georgia can and almost certainly will grant sea passage to US forces, but they do not have the necessary naval capabilities to make a meaningful contribution”, – Episkopos stressed.
According to the observer, Russia is well placed to effectively campaign against allied forces in the Black Sea and there is not a hint of victory for the North Atlantic Alliance in any of the possible conflict scenarios.
The National Interest