In brief
Mark Rutte, the NATO chief, has stated that Russia may launch an attack on a NATO country within the next five years. Speaking in Germany, he highlighted escalating covert campaigns by Russia and stressed the importance of military readiness among NATO allies. This warning follows ongoing tensions due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine and comes as Western nations assess their defense strategies against potential threats.
Russia could attack a NATO country within the next five years, the Western military alliance's chief has said in a stark new warning.
Russia is already escalating its covert campaign against our societies, Mark Rutte stated during a speech in Germany. We must be prepared for the scale of war our grandparents or great-grandparents endured.
Rutte echoed similar assertions made by Western intelligence agencies, which Russia dismisses as hysteria.
This warning coincides with ongoing efforts by US President Donald Trump to end Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, which commenced in February 2022.
Earlier this month, Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that his country was not seeking war with Europe but stood ready right now if Europe chose to escalate tensions. However, assurances made by Moscow in the past before the invasion of Ukraine are perceived skeptically.
Rutte underscored the necessity of supporting Ukraine as a vital measure for European security, envisioning a grim scenario where Putin's tactics succeed.
Amid rising tensions, Russia's economy has been geared towards war, with significant military production capabilities reported. Analysts caution that Western allies are far from matching Russia's output of military supplies, with France and Germany considering reviving military service programs.
As the NATO chief stressed in Berlin, the alliance must accelerate its defense spending and production capabilities to ensure safety for all member countries.
