| Article 5 says that in case of an armed-attack of a member of NATO, that other countries have to provide help. Each member of the alliance then decide, about how much help, when and how at their own discretion. It doesn't necessarily mean that Washington would attack Moscow, and vice-versa or that they would be war outside "disputed" territories. If tomorrow they have to choose between saving Tallinn or San Francisco, they'll make some choices, but not irrational ones. The main TV channel in Russia openly threatens of an hybrid-scenario like in 2014 in Ukraine where they sent soldiers without bearing insignias or flags (so officially it was not an attack). Let's say Estonia is in a situation in some way similar to North Korea vs South Korea. Very peaceful and nice country inside but with a risk of getting into a dangerous military situation and some support guaranteed by the US and other allies if things goes bad. The ambassadors of both countries kicked out each other in harsh ways, the customs don't collaborate together anymore, etc. No panic, but still good to keep in mind, just in case. |