Croatia’s Defense Ministry highlights country’s role in NATO forward presence - EXCLUSIVE

The Croatian Armed Forces have been continuously participating in NATO multinational battlegroups on the eastern flank since 2017, including in the Republic of Poland and the Republic of Lithuania, the source in the Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Croatia said in an exclusive interview with CE Report.

"Following the Russian aggression against Ukraine in 2022, NATO further strengthened its forward presence by establishing additional multinational battlegroups, with Croatia contributing to activities in Hungary and Bulgaria," the statement reads.

The Ministry noted that NATO’s forward presence demonstrates the Alliance’s solidarity, determination, and ability to respond rapidly to any aggression.

"The Republic of Croatia places particular emphasis on its contribution to Forward Land Forces activities, as it considers credible, sustained, and reinforced collective defence essential for Alliance security. Participation in these activities enables the Croatian Armed Forces to further develop their capabilities, enhance interoperability with the armed forces of other NATO member states, and directly contribute to strengthening the Alliance’s deterrence and defence posture," the source highlighted.

Through such engagements, the Ministry added, Croatia confirms its commitment to the implementation of Allied decisions and continues to build its political and military credibility within NATO.

"At the same time, participation in multinational formations allows Croatian forces to adapt to evolving operational structures, contributing both to the development of national capabilities and to the broader needs of the Alliance. The participation of the Croatian Armed Forces in NATO, EU, and UN missions, operations, and activities is regulated by decisions of the Croatian Parliament," the Ministry concluded.

Photo: Wikipedia

This interview was prepared by Julian Müller