ABSTRACT
The approach of the new member states to the NATO TNW debate must be seen as merely one element of their position on the defense and deterrence policy of the Alliance, not necessarily as the essence of extended deterrence. Developments thus far indicate the increased importance of conventional means of assurance and territorial missile defense to the new allies. It should also be noted that the new member states did not initiate the debate on TNWs. They were forced to formulate their positions as a consequence of the reintroduction of disarmament discourse by the Global Zero movement and President Barack Obama, and because of a push by some Western European allies (including Germany) for the rethinking of the nuclear policy of the Alliance and the possibility of the withdrawal of TNWs from the territories of some of the host countries.1
