Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) -- Over the past four months, 30 Russian and European security experts (retired diplomats and former military personnel from the United States) have been discussing how NATO and Russia can reduce the risk of unintended conflict.

In their opinion, the situation urgently requires a more active dialogue and the restoration of contacts between politicians and the military. For example, more frequent meetings between the Russian Chief of the General Staff, the Chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, the Supreme Commander of the NATO Forces in Europe and the Chairman of the NATO Military Committee will help reduce tensions and reduce the likelihood of misunderstandings between the military.

NATO and Russia should consider adding transparency to the exercise. Among other things, they should consider extending advance notice and decreasing restrictions on surveillance. Surprise alert checks to test the military's ability to mobilize quickly are not covered by the prior notification requirement and may, in some cases, appear to be preparation for war. The parties must agree to "quietly notify" each other at the level of the highest military command.

In addition, NATO and Russia need to develop measures to increase transparency regarding new types of weapons, in particular, non-nuclear medium-range strike systems. These can be sea-based and air-based systems, as well as land-based missiles that are not subject to the START-3 treaty. The parties can also go even further and think about mutual restrictions on additional permanent deployment of troops in border areas.

As experts conclude, today, instead of arguing over who is to blame for the current situation, it is necessary to focus on practical measures that will help avoid a possible collision.