NATO reaffirms nuclear alliance status and NPT commitment

NATO has reaffirmed its commitment to the nuclear non-proliferation regime and its status as a "nuclear alliance."

Operative Information Center-OMM reports that a statement from the North Atlantic Council was published on the organization's official website as part of the preparations for the 11th Review Conference of the Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT).

The document states that NATO will remain a nuclear alliance as long as nuclear weapons exist. The Alliance emphasized its full support for the NPT, maintaining that the treaty remains the "cornerstone" of the global non-proliferation architecture. Furthermore, the statement accused Russia of violating several NPT provisions and criticized China for the non-transparent expansion of its nuclear arsenal.

Brussels also alleged that Russia and China maintain ties with nations interested in nuclear proliferation and efforts to weaken international oversight. While specific countries were not explicitly named in this section, NATO frequently cites Iran and North Korea in such contexts. The NPT, which entered into force in 1970, is a landmark international treaty designed to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and weapons technology, while promoting cooperation in the peaceful uses of nuclear energy. NATO's nuclear policy is guided by its Strategic Concept, which underscores that the fundamental purpose of the Alliance’s nuclear capability is to preserve peace, prevent coercion, and deter aggression.