Arrr! Central and Eastern European lands be celebratin' 20 years in NATO, keepin' an eye on Ukraine's battles.
2024-03-28
Avast ye landlubbers! 'Twas a grand celebration in central and eastern Europe as seven new scallywags joined the mighty NATO crew. 'Tis been 20 years since this grand alliance set sail on its largest expansion yet. Hoist the Jolly Roger and drink to our new shipmates!
In the language of a 17th-century pirate, me hearties, several central and Eastern European countries be celebratin' the 20th anniversary of the grand expansion of the NATO military alliance. Military aircraft be flyin' over the Lithuanian capital Vilnius, while officials gather at the airbase to commemorate the event. President Gitanas Nauseda be speakin' of Russia's terror in Europe, but he be reassurin' that Lithuania will never be alone with the strong Alliance family by their side.Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Slovakia, and Slovenia joined NATO in 2004, bringin' the total membership to 26. These countries, havin' suffered from Soviet occupation, have been warnin' of the threat of Russia for years. Since joinin' the alliance, they have shown robust responses, supportin' Ukraine and pushin' for sanctions on Russia.Most of these former Soviet Republics spend more than the required 2% of GDP on defense, showin' their commitment to NATO. They be markin' the anniversary with solemn events and shows of force, but also with some levity, includin' open-air concerts and exhibitions. Admiral Emil Eftimov of Bulgaria be affirming that joinin' NATO be the right choice for their country in these uncertain times. Long live the Alliance!