Why Russia did not join NATO?
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Russia did not join NATO for a number of complex political, military and historical reasons. Let's find out in detail:
Historical Reasons:
Legacy of the Cold War: NATO was formed during the Cold War between the Soviet Union and the United States after World War II. The Soviet Union and NATO were rivals and saw each other as threats. This historical rivalry has created a deep distrust of NATO within Russia.
Fall of the Soviet Union: After the fall of the Soviet Union, Russia lost its dominant position. NATO gradually expanded eastward. Russia considers it a threat to Russia's security.
Political Reasons:
Independence and Sovereignty: Russia values its independence and sovereignty very highly. They see NATO as a Western alliance aimed at reducing Russian influence in Eastern Europe.
International Politics: International politics often see conflict between Russia and the West. Russia is reluctant to join NATO due to disagreements and mutual mistrust on various issues.
Military reasons:
Military Strategy: Russia feels that NATO membership is incompatible with its military strategy. NATO's military structure and strategy could pose a threat to Russia.
Military Costs: Becoming a member of NATO would require Russia to spend a lot more on military, which could be a burden on the Russian economy.
Other Reasons:
Ukraine crisis: The Ukraine crisis has worsened relations between Russia and NATO. The crisis has made Russia increasingly suspicious of NATO.
Russian Nationalism: Russian nationalists oppose joining NATO. They feel that NATO is a threat to Russia's independence and sovereignty.
Summary:
There are many complex reasons behind Russia not joining NATO. Historical enmities, political disputes, military strategy and complexities of international relations are the main reasons behind this decision.