As NATO leaders prepare for the Alliance’s key summit in Ankara on July 7–8, amid Russia’s war against Ukraine and renewed tensions in the Middle East, former U.S. Ambassador to the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) James Gilmore says NATO is undergoing a difficult transformation that will ultimately make it stronger—not weaker.
In an interview with Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Gilmore, who served during U.S. President Donald Trump’s first term, argued that Trump’s pressure on European allies has accelerated change, insisted that “Ukraine must not be allowed to fail,” and said NATO remains essential for both European security and U.S. national interests.
Gilmore expressed optimism about NATO’s future, pointing to the Alliance’s expansion with the accession of Finland and Sweden, developments he said once seemed unimaginable.
He argued that Trump’s long-standing calls for NATO members to increase defense spending are now producing results, while Russia’s aggression has created a renewed sense of unity among allies.
“Russia is once again creating a moment of unity for NATO countries because Moscow poses a threat,” Gilmore said, describing the conflict as part of a broader global struggle.
Regarding Ukraine, Gilmore stressed that Russian President Vladimir Putin “must not be allowed to succeed” and praised Ukraine’s military innovations, particularly its drone capabilities, saying Kyiv has achieved successes that Moscow never expected.
He also argued that European NATO members have already assumed a leading role in supporting Ukraine by purchasing American weapons and supplying military aid, while emphasizing that the political message of resisting Russian aggression is just as important as military assistance.
While acknowledging ongoing security challenges in the Middle East, including concerns over Iran and the Strait of Hormuz, Gilmore described the region as a distraction from what he considers the primary strategic theater—the war in Europe.
Looking ahead to the NATO summit, he said allied leaders should reaffirm their commitment to collective defense and continued support for Ukraine.
“Ukraine will not fall under Russian occupation again,” Gilmore said. “I believe Ukraine will win this war.”
Gilmore concluded by arguing that NATO strengthens not only Europe’s security but also America’s, maintaining that the United States should continue providing military, financial, and moral leadership within the Alliance despite political disagreements at home.
