Enlargement of NATO

The enlargement of NATO refers to the process of expanding the North Atlantic Treaty Organization to include more member countries. Established in 1949, NATO started with 12 countries to promote collective security against threats, particularly during the Cold War. Over the years, it has added nations from Eastern Europe and the Balkans, particularly after the fall of the Soviet Union. This expansion aims to enhance security, stability, and cooperation in Europe, but it has also raised tensions with countries like Russia, which view NATO's growth as a challenge to their influence.