ACCESSION NUMBER:00000
FILE ID:96100401.WWE
DATE:10/04/96
TITLE:04-10-96  SLOCOMBE: POST COLD WAR HAS MADE NEW FRIENDS OF OLD ENEMIES

TEXT:
(Discusses Russia, Cold War, NATO) (530)
By Vance Phillips
USIA Staff Writer

Washington -- The break-up of the former Soviet Union has changed the
worldwide security outlook and produced a number of new challenges
which must be addressed, according to Under Secretary of Defense for
Policy Walter Slocombe.

In an October 4 speech to the Defense Orientation Conference
Association, Slocombe said eliminating the threat of global nuclear
war has led to a "profound change in the quality of life (worldwide)
and national security (in the United States)."

He stated that the dissolution of the former Soviet Union has produced
several "powerful adversaries," and it has resulted in the United
States' being the "lone remaining superpower."

Slocombe emphasized that the threat to U.S. national security has
decreased over the years. However, he said, there is still a need to
have a capable military power in order to protect U.S. interests. He
noted that since 1985 there has been a 40 percent reduction in the
defense budget. He said the end of the Cold War has produced a number
of new challenges, most notable being the need to:

-- protect against the reemergence of the threats posed to United
States during the Cold War period (that is, restocking dismantled
nuclear weapon arsenals);

-- effectively manage limited military resources;

-- maintain our (United States) technological advantage; and

-- preserve U.S. military readiness so forces can carry out missions
with minimal casualties.

He pointed out that continued progression towards establishing "good
U.S.-Russia relations will produce successful negotiations on other
issues. Failure to do so will create a series of problems."

Slocombe stressed that decreasing Russian leaders' perceived threat of
North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) expansion is an issue that
needs to be addressed. He called Russia's cooperative efforts with
NATO troops in Bosnia a milestone achievement, reducing some of
Russia's anxiety over NATO enlargement. He said Russian troops
participating in IFOR (Bosnian peace implementation force) will take
home the message of "trust and cooperation" between NATO and Russia.

As for Bosnia, he praised the Implementation Force troops for their
performance "under difficult conditions. Their remarkable success is
something everyone can be proud of." He said NATO defense ministers
have planned to set up an "analytical process to determine whether or
not a force will remain after IFOR troops have withdrawn from Bosnia."

In addition to Bosnia, NATO member leaders also plan to discuss
expansion. Slocombe said NATO defense ministers have scheduled a
summit meeting sometime in mid-1997. At that time invitations will be
submitted to those countries selected for membership, followed by a
year-long negotiation and ratification process. He said those
countries not selected for membership will still be given
consideration during the next selection process. To be granted
membership, a country must have:

-- a stable democratic system;

-- civilian controlled military;

-- increased interaction with NATO allies;

-- resolution of border and ethnic disputes; and

-- be able to contribute to NATO's effectiveness.

Asked what are some additional concerns for U.S. security leaders, he
said that terrorism, human rights issues, peace in the Middle East are
key areas that U.S. leaders are focusing upon.
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