[tpoacher]

This is true, but only in the same sense as shop owners willingly accepting mafia protection as soon as this is "offered". "It would be a shame if something were to happen to your shop".

Don't make the mistake of thinking that just because a country expresses interest to join NATO, the general sentiment must be "my my what a lovely club to join, I feel so safe here". You're literally signing a pact of war. Basically it's "choose which mafia family you prefer" and simply not choosing one is probably the worst choice.