Then you have a nuclear armed and now bellicose USA fervently opposed to the perceived threat from communism and you are surprised they are paranoid.
Theres hardly anyone in Europe who could fight their way out of a paper bag in relation to a decent opponent. The Yanks are barely able to invade and win against a third world country due to political constraints. Who the f#$% are people kidding, when they say that the Russians are paranoid about being surrounded.
Yes on the street level, at the higher up level they know better. The surrounded and threat bit, is purely about culture, influence and power.