Chapter 1. Introduction: Why this Book? -- Chapter 2. Theory and Methodology -- Chapter 3. From Hamburg and Munchen to Tallinn and Burgas -- Chapter 4. From the War Against Georgia to the Annexation of the Crimea and the Following Increase in Military Tension -- Chapter 5. The Growing Militarisation of the Baltic and Black Sea Areas After the End of the Cold War -- Chapter 6. The War in Ukraine in Light of the Expansion of NATO -- Chapter 7. The Clash of Three Bipolar Narratives About the War in Ukraine -- Chapter 8. The Conclusion of the Book.

This book presents a fresh perspective on the geopolitical landscape surrounding NATO's enlargement, aptly termed "expansion by invitation." Looking beyond conventional narratives, it unravels the multifaceted outcomes of this process, extending beyond the initial optimism. While acknowledging the merits of NATO's expansion, the book scrutinizes its contentious side effects, notably the escalating militarization of the Baltic and Black Sea regions, heightened military expenditure, shifts toward offensive doctrines, and the surge in military exercises and incidents between NATO and Russia. In a world witnessing a renewed bipolarization akin to the Cold War era, the book underscores the need for NATO and Russia to de-escalate tensions and strive towards a transition from contemporary negative peace to a more constructive, positive peace. Devoid of bias, this book refrains from condemning the expansion process but rather calls for an acknowledgment of its consequences. It is an indispensable resource for academics seeking a nuanced understanding of NATO's expansion, challenging prevailing terminologies and offering insights into the complex dynamics of international security in Europe.