NATO Director of Nuclear Policy Jim Stokes underscores that nuclear weapons are not for attacks, rather, their function is to preserve peace and deter the aggressor. According to the NATO official, even though not a nuclear state, Lithuania is a full-fledged shaper of NATO’s nuclear policy. The topic was addressed at the latest Ministry of National Defence podcast KAS ir KAM?
“NATO decisions are not taken without Lithuania’s awareness. The Lithuanians are especially active in the nuclear formats of NATO, they shape the policy, contribute in discussions, debate their plans and opportunities,” said NATO representative.
According to the expert, Russia is instrumentalizing the nuclear weapon not just as a physical threat but also for exerting psychological pressure. “Russia is trying to use its nuclear rhetoric to deter the West from supporting Ukraine. But we observe, understand what they are doing and let them see that we cannot be scared,” said J. Stokes.
“Lithuania faces the same amount of nuclear threat as the entire NATO Alliance. We have been saying frankly for many years now: the main threat NATO faces is Russia with the terrorist organisations,” said NATO Director of Nuclear Policy.
The podcast addresses the question why NATO absolutely needs nuclear capability. According to J. Stokes, it would be irresponsible to ditch them in the current security situation, “A world without the nuclear weapons would be an ideal, however, the reality of today is quite different. We have adversaries who not only hold a nuclear arsenal but also are actively engaged in upgrading it,” underscored J. Stokes.
The KAS ir KAM? podcast examines daily and strategic challenges at the National Defence System, from logistical and psychological aspects to conflict and solutions in order to build a better understanding between the National Defence System and the public.
