If war were to break out in the eastern Baltic region and NATO’s Article 5 is invoked, European NATO countries with Baltic Sea coastlines would likely take the lead in responding to the crisis. Military analyst Johannes Riber suggests that a coalition of nations including Denmark, Germany, Poland, Sweden, and Finland would be best suited to manage the situation.

These nations, bordering the Baltic Sea, possess the strategic advantage of proximity. Their combined naval capabilities and local knowledge would be crucial for maintaining control and security in the region. Given their familiarity with the Baltic Sea, these countries would be the primary responders.

Riber, from the Danish Defence Academy’s Institute for Strategy and War Studies, emphasizes that the Baltic Sea’s unique geographical characteristics necessitate a regional approach. The shallow waters and numerous islands make it a challenging environment for naval operations, requiring specialized expertise and equipment. Therefore, relying on nations with established maritime capabilities in the Baltic Sea is a logical strategy.