NATO was formed to stop Soviet encroachment upon or invasion of Europe. For 20 years now, there has been no Soviet Union. For all of his efforts, Putin appears to be doing no more than consolidating the Russian sphere of interest -- and making a mint for himself and his pals selling stuff to Europe.

In that context, is it finally time for NATO to fold, allowing the European Union to develop a unified command to replace it -- a command that is structured and focused on furthering the agenda of a united Europe.

The USA would, in all probability, maintain a close working relationship with this new European defense entity, but would no longer be forward deployed in Europe or exert pressure on Europe to support US strategic interests because of the ties imposed by NATO.

This would also allow the USA to draw down forces further for budgetary reasons and focus on relationships and strategic partnering with the other states in the Americas.

Quick Poll included, and your comments are always encouraged.