Increasing Threat from Russia: A View on Military Capability
Russia is actively enhancing its military capabilities, which could pose a threat to NATO in the coming years.
Even a potential cessation of hostilities in Ukraine may allow Russia to prepare for future aggressive actions.
This information was presented by NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte during his speech at the Chatham House analytical center in the UK, as reported by “European Truth”.
Growing Threat to NATO
According to Rutte, Russia is significantly increasing its military production, and if this trend continues, in five years it could initiate aggression against Alliance countries.
“Russia may be ready to take military action against NATO within the next five years,” − emphasized the Secretary-General.
He also noted that Russia is actively cooperating with China, North Korea, and Iran, all of which are also expanding their armed forces.
“Putin’s military machine is accelerating, not slowing down. Russia is utilizing Chinese technology to produce weapons faster than we anticipated,” − Rutte explained.
The NATO Secretary-General highlighted that Russia’s military production rates significantly exceed those of NATO countries. In just three months, Russia produces as much artillery ammunition as all NATO countries combined do in a year.
This year, Russia's defense industry is projected to produce 1500 tanks, 3000 armored vehicles, and 200 Iskander-type missiles.
“Let’s not deceive ourselves. We are all now on the eastern flank. The new generation of Russian missiles travels at speeds that exceed the speed of sound.
The distance between European capitals is only a matter of minutes. There is no longer an East or West. There is only NATO,” − stated the Secretary-General, emphasizing the shift in the security paradigm in Europe.
Risks of Cessation of Fire in Ukraine for NATO
The NATO Secretary-General also stated that ending hostilities in Ukraine could allow Russia to replenish its armaments, posing an even greater threat to Alliance nations in the future.
When asked whether it is fair to say that risks for NATO begin to rise after a sustainable ceasefire in Ukraine is achieved, Rutte replied: “This is a statement of fact, I believe.”
He agreed that Russia would start stockpiling weapons after a ceasefire is announced.
According to him, even while the war against Ukraine continues, the Russians still have the capacity to increase their stockpiles, but this is a “debatable issue.”
“In response to your question, I mean that this is a statement of fact,” − Rutte reiterated, confirming his position.
