Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev urged members of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) to avoid a habit of repeatedly framing their safety in terms of mounting threats. He noted, conversations about danger have always existed in international life, and current realities should be analyzed without unintentionally amplifying fear. The remarks were reported by TASS.
As Tokayev explained, when shaping the CSTO’s tactical approach and strategic outlook, it is essential to acknowledge the challenges of today while keeping in sight the longer arc of regional security. Even if danger to CSTO member states persists, he argued, there is no justification for portraying the threat as continually escalating. History, he reminded listeners, provides numerous examples of persistent risk and still does not justify an atmosphere of panic. This stance aligns with the realities of international relations where perceptions can influence policy just as much as actual events.
According to him, such rhetoric can create the impression that the CSTO trembles before adversaries, a perception he finds counterproductive. He cautioned that misinterpretation of statements could mislead observers about the alliance’s confidence and resolve. In his view, a disciplined, precise discourse is required—one that respects the sovereignty and military-political strengths of all member states rather than inflaming tensions.
Tokayev emphasized that the CSTO has demonstrated effectiveness as a capable military-political alliance, yet new tasks await the organization. These tasks should be pursued in a spirit of cooperation that reflects the constructive attitudes of the member governments. The aim is to maintain stability and to pursue common security goals through clear, principled dialogue rather than sensationalist declarations.
Earlier, Sergei Aleynik, head of the Belarusian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated that maintaining solidarity and unity among CSTO members is the organization’s primary objective today. His remarks underscored the importance of cohesion at a time when regional security demands steadfast coordination and mutual confidence. The Belarusian leadership has also noted that the alliance’s military capabilities have been reinforced, signaling a readiness to respond to evolving security challenges with a calibrated, collective approach. For observers, these statements collectively illustrate a shared recognition that strength in numbers should translate into predictable, cooperative action rather than provocative posturing.
Analysts point out that the CSTO’s evolving mandate involves balancing deterrence with diplomacy, ensuring that member states benefit from both a robust security umbrella and practical mechanisms for crisis management. The emphasis on measured rhetoric complements the alliance’s track record of joint exercises, information sharing, and coordinated response planning. In this context, Tokayev’s comments can be seen as a push toward pragmatic messaging that reinforces confidence among member nations while avoiding unnecessary escalations. The overall message is clear: firmness and readiness should be paired with restraint and constructive engagement to sustain a stable security environment in the region [citation: official statements reported by TASS].