NATO, or the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, is a political and military alliance of 30 countries in Europe and North America. Its fundamental goal is to safeguard the freedom and security of its members through political and military means. Some of the key things that NATO does include:

• Collective Defense: NATOs core mission is collective defense. This means that an attack against one member is considered an attack against all members, and NATO will respond accordingly.

• Fighting Terrorism: NATO plays an important role in fighting terrorism. Through NATO Mission Iraq, it advises and assists Iraqi security forces and institutions to stabilize their country, fight terrorism, and prevent the return of Daesh. NATO is also a full member of the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS.

• Support for Ukraine: NATO stands in full solidarity with the people of Ukraine as they defend their country against Russia’s war of aggression. NATO is providing non-lethal support including fuel, winter clothing, and generators.

• Working with Partners: NATO is committed to cooperation with its global partners. It works with over 40 partner countries around the world, as well as organizations such as the United Nations, the European Union, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, and the African Union, to spread stability and security.

• Troops and Equipment: Whenever NATO carries out a mission, its members commit troops and equipment to be placed under NATO command. These become known as “NATO forces.” The only military equipment that NATO owns is a fleet of AWACS (Airborne Warning and Control) .

• Diplomacy: NATO’s main priority is diplomacy. By talking to each other and with other countries, NATO tries to solve conflicts without using force. Within NATO, the Allies work together and make agreements on protecting democratic values.

• Crisis Management: NATO engages – where possible and when necessary – to project its values further afield, prevent and manage crises, stabilize post-conflict situations, and support reconstruction.

• Partnerships: NATO works with many non-member countries on a wide range of political and security-related issues. These countries pursue dialogue and practical cooperation with the Alliance and many contribute to NATO-led operations and missions.

Overall, NATOs essential and enduring purpose is to safeguard the freedom and security of all its members by political and military means.