Would the US aid NATO allies if needed ?

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 Q1  Countries on the eastern flank of NATO often feel more vulnerable than others. Do you     think their concerns are taken seriously enough by the rest of the alliance? Why / why not?

Q2  When a political leader uses strong rhetoric about defending allies, how do you decide whether it reflects real commitment or is just words? What do you look for?

Q3  Latvia is ramping up its defense spending. Do you think increasing the defense budget is always the right response to growing insecurity, or are there better alternatives?

Q4  The minister said the world is interconnected and that a conflict in one region affects armament supplies in another. Can you think of other examples where a distant conflict has had unexpected consequences closer to home?

Q5  If a country decides to divert weapons or financial aid from one conflict zone to another, who should make that decision and on what basis?

Q6  The minister argued that Europe needs to step up and develop its own industrial base for defense. Do you think Europe is ready and willing to do this? What would it take?

Q7  Some people argue that shortages of weapons and equipment in Europe are a serious security risk. Others say the real flashpoint is political division within NATO. Which view do you find more convincing?

Q8  Do you think strong bilateral relationships between individual countries are more effective than multilateral alliances like NATO? Can you give examples to support your view?

Q9  The minister said that success in Ukraine depends on not blocking support at a multilateral level. Do you think multilateral decisions are harder to make than bilateral ones?

Q10  The transatlantic relationship between Europe and the US has been under pressure recently. Do you think this has emboldened those who want to challenge the current world order? What evidence do you see for this?

Option AShould European countries take full responsibility for their own defense, or should they continue to rely on the transatlantic relationship with the United States?

Option BIs a strong multilateral alliance like NATO more effective for security than a network of bilateral agreements between individual countries?

Option CThe minister argued that weapons shortages in Europe are caused by a weak industrial base, not by conflicts diverting supplies. Do you agree?