What are the member countries of NATO, and what are their obligations to the alliance?

NATO, or the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, is a military alliance formed in 1949 with the aim of providing collective defense against potential security threats from the Soviet Union. It consists of 30 member countries, including the United States, Canada, and most countries in Western Europe.

Under the North Atlantic Treaty, NATO member countries are obligated to come to each other's defense if one of them is attacked. This is known as collective defense, and it is enshrined in Article 5 of the treaty.

In addition to collective defense, member countries have other obligations to the alliance. These include:

• Contributing to the costs of the alliance, with each member country required to spend at least 2% of their GDP on defense
• Participating in NATO military exercises and operations
• Sharing intelligence and military technology with other member countries

NATO has played a significant role in maintaining peace and stability in Europe since its inception. In recent years, it has expanded its focus to include countering terrorism and cyber threats, as well as promoting stability in the Middle East and North Africa.

Overall, NATO member countries have a strong commitment to collective defense and the mutual protection of their citizens. By working together, they can better address security challenges and protect the peace and stability of the region.