| > > NATO allies, excluding > And Mongolia https://www.state.gov/u-s-relations-with-mongolia/ > Bordered by Russia and China, Mongolia describes the United States as its most important “third neighbor.” In 2019, the United States and Mongolia upgraded their bilateral relationship to a Strategic Partnership. > Mongolia deployed troops to Iraq from 2003 through October 2008. In Afghanistan, Mongolian soldiers supported Coalition operations for 18 years, with withdrawal underway in 2021 in coordination with the planned exit of U.S. forces. Training and equipment provided by the U.S. government support the professionalization of Mongolia’s defense forces and their continued engagement in United Nations peacekeeping operations. The United States military also regularly participates in Mongolia-hosted peacekeeping and humanitarian relief exercises, including the annual Khaan Quest exercise. Seems like an "ally" to me. > Kazakhstan And while not as close, still maybe an "ally"? https://www.state.gov/u-s-relations-with-Kazakhstan/ > In the years since Kazakhstan’s independence, the two countries have developed a strong and wide-ranging bilateral relationship, jointly referred to as an enhanced strategic partnership since 2018. > Kazakhstan’s military participates in U.S.-funded military exercises like Steppe Eagle, Viking, Eager Lion, and Shanti Prayas. --- > North Korea The Russian border with North Korea is about 20 miles long. |
Just like surrounding, the meaning of ally needs changing to accommodate one's world view.