THE IMPORTANCE OF THE BALKANS TO THE SECURITY OF THE UNITED STATES
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20510
JAMES M. INHOFE
Chair of Armed Service Committee
Mr. President, it is of the utmost importance that we recognize that the Balkan
Region is critical to United States' interests in Europe due to the implications in the region
surrounding security, counterterrorism, cybersecurity, and implementation of 50. It is a
strategically significant region and a primary target of Russian malign influence.
Each year I have the honor of hosting a Balkan Roundtable Security Forum with leaders from the
Balkans and Members of Congress. NATO's role in Southeastern Europe is critical for the
support of our interests in the region. Integration of the Balkans into NATO, the EU, and other
partnerships with our friends in the region has long been an important goal, given the mounting
threat posed by Russia's continued behavior. In a time where our strategic competitors are
seeking to expand their influence, it is critical that our friends in the Balkan Region know that
the United States is here to support them and work together to counter our common foes.
It is clearly stated in the President's National Security Strategy, the National Defense Strategy,
and the National Military Strategy that Europe and the Trans-Atlantic NATO Alliance are
paramount to our national security, and this includes the integration of our allies on the Balkan
Peninsula. We have made significant strides in adapting our capabilities in many areas, including
cyber, to meet the growing threats in the region, but we must continue to work with our partners
to counter the evolving threats from Russia and China and preserve a Europe that is whole, free,
and at peace.
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