The primary goal of NATO, established in 1949, was to provide mutual defense and collective security for its member countries against potential aggression, particularly from the Soviet Union during the Cold War. Article 5 of the NATO treaty states that an armed attack against one member is considered an attack against all, thus ensuring collective response and deterrence. NATO's creation marked a significant step in post-World War II security arrangements, aiming to promote stability in Europe and prevent the spread of communism. As geopolitical tensions evolved, NATO's role adapted to address new challenges, including terrorism and cyber threats.