Could a NATO Build-Up in Europe Reignite the Cold War?

NATO is undertaking its largest build-up in Eastern Europe since the Cold War, in order to counter recent Russian expansionism. Meanwhile, Defense Secretary Ash Carter has proposed quadrupling U.S. spending on boosting its military might in Europe. But is it necessary -- or wise -- to send such a signal to a resurgent Russia?

SECRETARY OF DEFENSE ASH CARTER: We haven't had to worry about this for 25 years. While I wish it were otherwise, now we do.

Meanwhile Jack Matlock, former Ambassador to the Soviet Union under President Reagan, doesn't agree with the build-up.

JACK MATLOCK: I think it's a bad idea. I think it's not necessary. I think it's going to lead to even more confrontation with Russia and probably, simply, move more of their military equipment to the border.

....

I don't think there is any possibility of Russia making an incursion in the Baltic States. In their eyes, they have not committed aggression. They are responding to aggression from the West, and particularly from the United States, which they accuse I think unfairly, but sincerely, of trying to encircle them with military bases.