Encircling Russia?
Can you think of a single reason why the former countires of the Warsaw Pact and the Baltic States might be nervous enough of the cuddly Russian bear to wish to join a strong military alliance? Just one reason?
I'll give you a clue. 45 years of brutal Russian occupation. Howzat?
Everyone apologise for torture and oppression under the right circumstances. Consider the immediate post war period from Russia's point of view. The war was no picnic for them.....
**** the Germans and **** leaving a bloody great big gap of **** all between you and them.
Admittedly, you would think they might cool off over the next 20-30 years but then the Cold War was in full swing until Rocky IV came along and solved it.
You people will never understand Russia.