NATO

NATO, or the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, is an intergovernmental military alliance established in 1949. Its primary purpose is to ensure mutual defense among its member countries in Europe and North America, based on the principle that an attack against one member is considered an attack against all. NATO was founded in the context of the Cold War as a collective security measure against the Soviet Union and its allies. The organization promotes democratic values and encourages stability through political and military means. Over the years, NATO has expanded its membership, engaged in various military operations, and adapted its strategic focus to address new security challenges, including terrorism, cyber threats, and regional conflicts.