CSTO Ready to Support Russia if Europe Sends Troops to Ukraine – Tasmagambetov

Following the start of the U.S.-Russia dialogue, CSTO Secretary General Imangali Tasmagambetov sat down for an interview with the Russian newspaper Izvestia, where he discussed potential shifts in U.S. defense policy and the organization’s stance on evolving international security dynamics, Orda.kz reports.

On EU’s "Nuclear Umbrella" and Defense Spending

Tasmagambetov pointed out that discussions about establishing a pan-European nuclear deterrence system are not new, likening them to previous debates on forming a European army — an idea that never materialized.

In his view, the current situation in Europe does not warrant an immediate CSTO response.

The CSTO is closely monitoring developments in Europe, particularly in light of adjustments to U.S. foreign policy. However, discussions about a so-called ‘nuclear umbrella’ should be seen in the context of long-standing debates on a European army, which never came to fruition. Therefore, given the current situation in the West, this discussion hardly requires a response from the CSTO,he stated. 

Addressing U.S. President Donald Trump’s remarks about potential defense spending cuts, Tasmagambetov described them as largely declarative.

It will take significant time for such statements — if the situation allows — to be formalized into agreements, at least in the form of preliminary memoranda. Only then will this become a topic for analysis, and, I reiterrate, in the area of ​​bilateral relations, that is, between Washington and Moscow.

NATO, Ukraine, and Regional Security

Tasmagambetov voiced concern over NATO’s increasing presence:

At the same time, NATO's activities following its expansion with Sweden and Finland are understandably concerning, as this marks an increase of 1,500 kilometers in the line of front contact between the areas of responsibility of the two military-political alliances. Such concern is perfectly natural, he noted.

Regarding discussions in Europe about deploying an EU military contingent to Ukraine, he acknowledged that such ideas have been floated before but have yet to be acted upon due to the risks involved.

He cautioned that such a move could escalate regional tensions and might not be well-received by European citizens.

So far, these contingents are not officially present in Ukraine, largely because their deployment could create a highly dangerous regional situation. Additionally, European populations — already burdened by economic and social challenges — are unlikely to support such decisions by their governments. Even if these troops are assigned non-combat roles, such as policing or observation, it would still impose additional costs on society.

Armenia

Tasmagambetov reaffirmed that Armenia remains a CSTO ally and that their relationship has not changed.

We maintain active communication with Yerevan. I will emphasize once again that the Republic of Armenia remains an ally, and the organization’s commitments toward the country stand firm. Despite discussions about resuming cooperation with the CSTO, the format of our relations remains unchanged.

Original Author: Aliya Askarova