What countries have recently joined NATO? This question has been on the minds of many as the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) continues to evolve and adapt to the changing global security landscape. In recent years, several countries have expressed their desire to become part of this powerful military alliance, leading to significant geopolitical shifts.
The most recent addition to NATO is North Macedonia, which joined the alliance on March 30, 2020. This came after years of negotiations and a historic agreement between Greece and North Macedonia to resolve their long-standing dispute over the use of the name “Macedonia.” The integration of North Macedonia into NATO was seen as a significant step towards regional stability and security.
Another country that joined NATO relatively recently is Montenegro. On June 5, 2017, Montenegro became the 29th member of the alliance, marking a significant moment for the country’s European integration process. Montenegro’s membership was met with both excitement and concern, as some neighboring countries expressed concerns about the potential impact on regional stability.
Georgia has also been seeking NATO membership for years, and while it has not yet been formally invited to join, the country remains a key partner of the alliance. Georgia’s bid for membership is seen as a way to strengthen its security and counterbalance Russian influence in the region.
In addition to these countries, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania, and Iceland have been members of NATO since the early 2000s. However, their membership has been the subject of debate and criticism, with some questioning the effectiveness of the alliance in the Balkans and others praising its role in promoting stability and security.
The recent additions to NATO highlight the alliance’s commitment to expanding its reach and ensuring the security of its members. As the global security landscape continues to change, NATO will likely face new challenges and opportunities in the years to come. The integration of new members such as North Macedonia and Montenegro has already demonstrated the alliance’s ability to adapt and evolve, making it a crucial player in international security.
