Why did NATO develop cooperative links with Russia and Ukraine after the Cold War?

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Flag of NATO featuring a white compass rose emblem with four lines radiating from the center on a blue background. — North Atlantic Treaty Organization Flag of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).

Following the Cold War, NATO transitioned into a "cooperative-security" organization, shifting its focus toward fostering dialogue and stability with former adversaries. To achieve this, the alliance established frameworks like the Partnership for Peace (PfP) program in 1994, which aimed to enhance security through joint military training and cooperation with non-NATO states, including former Soviet republics.1

Within this broader effort, NATO developed special cooperative links with Russia and Ukraine to integrate them into regional security discussions. By the early 21st century, the relationship with Russia had evolved into a strategic partnership intended to address shared global concerns, such as international terrorism, nuclear nonproliferation, and arms control.12

These cooperative efforts were rooted in the principle of promoting peace and stability across Europe. However, these bonds were later challenged and ultimately frayed due to regional aggression by Russian leadership, leading NATO to reaffirm its commitment to the sovereignty and security of its partners and members.123