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 said in a speech in Germany. We must be prepared for the scale of war our grandparents or great-grandparents endured.
He echoed similar statements regarding Russia’s intentions made by Western intelligence agencies, which Moscow dismisses as hysteria.
Rutte's warning comes as US President Donald Trump attempts to negotiate an end to Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, launched in February 2022.
Earlier this month, Russia's President Vladimir Putin claimed that his country was not planning to go to war with Europe, but was ready right now if Europe wanted to or initiated a conflict.
Contrary to his reassurances, which many in NATO view with skepticism, Rutte stated, Supporting Ukraine, was a guarantee for European security.
Just imagine if Putin got his way; Ukraine under the boot of Russian occupation, his forces pressing against a longer border with NATO, and the significantly increased risk of an armed attack against us, Rutte warned.
During his remarks, Rutte also reminded NATO members that Russia has been on a war footing, ramping up military production, while he noted that Europe’s defense capabilities lag behind.
Russia currently produces significant military supplies each month, including tanks and drones, while analysts argue that Western Europe would require years to match this production volume.
Rutte highlighted that NATO’s defenses are adequate for now but cautioned against complacency in a climate where conflict is right next door to Europe.
He emphasized the need for allied defense spending to rise rapidly, stating, Our armed forces must have what they need to keep us safe.
