The current buildup of Russian military forces near Ukraine and the prospect of imminent Russian aggression portends serious security concerns for other democratic nations in the region that similarly aspire to gain membership in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). Like Ukraine, Georgia is a former Soviet republic bordering the Russian Federation. Georgia seeks to join the community of Euro-Atlantic democracies, not only as a means of strengthening its own security, but to contribute to regional security requirements as well. Indeed, Georgian military forces have participated in several NATO-led operations, including the Kosovo Force (KFOR), International Security Assistance Forces (ISAF) in Afghanistan, and the maritime operations Active Endeavor and Sea Guardian.