Salvaging the Conventional Armed Forces in Europe Treaty

The Conventional Armed Forces in Europe (CFE) Treaty has been at risk since Russia “suspended” its implementation in 2007. The conflict between Georgia and Russia in 2008 further complicated the issue. Although NATO members have continued to observe their CFE obligations, it is not clear how long this situation can be sustained. It is time for Washington and NATO capitals to consider options for saving the treaty or for moving beyond it.

On March 23, the Arms Control Initiative at Brookings hosted a discussion to examine these questions, including future options for CFE. Panelists included long-time experts on conventional arms control in Europe: Anne Witkowsky, Sherman Garnett, and Jeff McCausland. The event marked the release of their paper, “Salvaging the Conventional Armed Forces in Europe Treaty: Options for Washington,” the second paper in the Brookings Arms Control series.

Senior Fellow Steven Pifer, director of the Arms Control Initiative, moderated the discussion. After the program, panelists took audience questions.