Why does Russia perceive Nato expansion as an existential threat?

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Russia Perceives Nato Expansion as an Existential Threat Due to Historical Assurances and Exponential Growth

Russia views Nato expansion as a significant threat to its security and existence, primarily stemming from broken assurances following the Soviet Union's collapse and the alliance's subsequent exponential growth. Russian leaders were given to understand that Nato would not continue to expand eastward after the dissolution of the Soviet Union, a sentiment that has been repeatedly contradicted by Nato's increasing membership. This perceived betrayal of trust, coupled with the alliance's proximity and perceived adversarial nature, fuels Russia's deep-seated anxieties.
Broken Assurances Regarding Nato's Eastward Expansion

Following the fall of the Soviet Union, Russian leaders received assurances that the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (Nato) would not extend its reach further eastwards. These assurances, however, have not been upheld as Nato has progressively incorporated former Soviet bloc countries. This expansion has been interpreted by Russia as a direct violation of these understandings, eroding trust and fostering a sense of strategic encirclement.
Exponential Growth of Nato as a Security Concern

The exponential growth of the Nato alliance since the end of the Cold War is a central factor in Russia's perception of threat. Created initially to counter the Soviet Union, of which Russia is the successor state, Nato's continued expansion is seen as a direct challenge to Russia's security interests and its very existence. The alliance's increasing membership and military capabilities near Russia's borders are viewed as an aggressive posture.
Historical Context of Nato's Formation and Russia's Role

Nato was established in 1949 with the explicit purpose of collective defence against the Soviet Union. Given that Russia inherited the mantle of the Soviet Union, the expansion of an alliance formed to contain its predecessor is perceived as a continuation of a historical adversarial relationship. This historical context intensifies Russia's apprehension regarding Nato's eastward moves.

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Why does Russia perceive Nato expansion as an existential threat?

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