Controversy Surrounds New Maritime Command in Rostock

Germany clarifies that the Rostock base is not a NATO headquarters amid Russian concerns over treaty violations.

The Commander Task Force Baltic in Rostock is a German-led operation with multinational involvement, not a NATO headquarters.
Russia has objected, alleging a breach of the Two-plus-Four Treaty, which restricts NATO troop stationing in former East Germany.
Germany maintains that the presence of 25 officers from 11 countries does not constitute troop stationing under the treaty.
The Rostock base will support NATO operations by providing maritime intelligence and coordinating exercises in the Baltic region.
The strategic importance of the base is underscored by increased Russian naval activity near critical infrastructure in the Baltic Sea.