NATOsse

NATOsse is a term that has gained attention in recent years, particularly in the context of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and its operations. The term itself is a portmanteau of NATO and the German word "Sosse," which translates to "sauce." It is used to describe the perceived lack of strategic depth and cohesion within NATO's military capabilities, particularly in the context of the transatlantic relationship between the United States and its European allies.

The term was popularized by German defense minister Ursula von der Leyen in 2019, when she criticized the perceived lack of commitment from some NATO member states to meet their defense spending obligations. Von der Leyen argued that the alliance needed to "spice up" its military capabilities to better address emerging threats, such as those posed by Russia and China.

Critics of the term argue that it oversimplifies the complex dynamics of the transatlantic relationship and NATO's military structure. They contend that the term does not account for the diverse military capabilities and strategic interests of NATO member states, nor does it address the challenges of maintaining a unified and cohesive military alliance in an era of great power competition.

Despite these criticisms, NATOsse has become a shorthand for discussions about the future of NATO and the transatlantic relationship. It serves as a reminder of the need for continued investment in defense capabilities and the importance of maintaining a strong and united alliance in the face of emerging threats.