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 about Russia's intentions made by Western intelligence agencies, which Moscow dismisses as hysteria.
Rutte's warning comes as US President Donald Trump tries to bring an end to Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, launched in February 2022.
Earlier this month, Russia's President Vladimir Putin stated that his country was not planning to go to war with Europe but was ready right now if Europe started a conflict.
However, such reassurances were previously made by Moscow in 2022, just before the invasion of Ukraine.
Putin accused European countries of hindering US efforts to stabilize the situation in Ukraine, a reference to their role in modifying peace proposals.
NATO's secretary-general dismissed Putin's sincerity and affirmed that supporting Ukraine is crucial for European security.
Imagine if Putin succeeded; Ukraine under occupation, his forces pressing against a longer border with NATO, and the significant risk of an armed attack against us, he said.
Russia's economy has maintained a war footing for over three years, ramping up production of military supplies. A Kiel Institute report indicates Russia produces approximately 150 tanks and 550 infantry fighting vehicles monthly.
Western Europe, in contrast, is not prepared to match this level of military production, as analysts point out that it would take years to ramp up capacities.
The NATO chief emphasized the urgent need for increased defense spending and military readiness among member nations, warning that complacency could lead to devastating consequences.
NATO's defenses can hold for now, Rutte cautioned, but conflict is very near to Europe, and a sense of urgency is paramount.
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