NATO has recognized Russia as the most significant and direct threat to Allied security and is undertaking substantial adaptations to its defense and deterrence posture. This includes reinforcing its eastern flank, increasing the readiness of its forces, and developing new regional defense plans. The Alliance has deployed four additional multinational battlegroups to Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania, and Slovakia, complementing those already present in Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland. Additionally, NATO has elevated its high-readiness forces from 40,000 to over 300,000 troops and improved its command structure to enable more rapid reinforcement of vulnerable areas.