How is NATO responding to new security threats in 2024?

In 2024, NATO’s response has centered on strengthening collective defense while adapting to threats that cross military, cyber and economic lines. The alliance continues to identify Russia as its most significant direct threat, while also addressing terrorism, cyberattacks, disinformation and risks to critical infrastructure. It describes China’s policies and growing capabilities as challenges to allied security and interests.

More forces and exercises in Europe

NATO is putting regional defense plans agreed by allies into practice, aiming to make it clearer which forces would defend each part of the alliance and how they would be reinforced. Its eastern presence remains a key part of that effort. In early 2024, the alliance began Steadfast Defender 2024, involving about 90,000 personnel in its largest exercise since the Cold War. The exercise tested the movement and coordination of forces across Europe.

Allies are also investing in readiness, equipment and integrated air and missile defense. At the Washington summit in July, leaders welcomed increased defense spending and urged continued investment in forces and industrial capacity.

Support for Ukraine and a larger alliance

NATO allies continued military and practical assistance to Ukraine. At the Washington summit, they agreed that NATO would take a larger role in coordinating security assistance and training, and committed to continued support. Ukraine is not a NATO member, so this support does not mean the alliance is at war with Russia.

The alliance also grew in 2024: Sweden joined in March, following Finland’s accession in 2023. Both countries’ membership strengthens NATO’s position in Northern Europe and adds to its collective defense arrangements.

Responding beyond conventional warfare

NATO treats cyber and space domains as important parts of modern security, alongside land, air and sea. Allies share information, build resilience against attacks on essential services, and work to counter hybrid activity such as sabotage and disinformation. The overall approach is to deter aggression, improve the ability to respond if deterrence fails, and make allied societies and infrastructure harder to disrupt.