In recent weeks, the Pentagon has privately urged its European allies to be more restrained in their comments about the threat posed by Russia. US officials believe that certain statements made by European leaders could have a negative impact on the continent’s security. Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia have received such signals.
- The Pentagon has called on several NATO countries to be more measured in their comments about the threat posed by Russia.
- Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia have received the relevant requests.
- Pentagon spokesperson Elbridge Colby urged people to avoid making statements that might be perceived as provocative.
The US has asked Europeans not to provoke Russia
Pros. information According to Reuters, one of the Pentagon officials who conveyed these requests was the US Under-Secretary of Defence for Policy Elbridge Colby.
During a conversation with a representative of one of the Baltic states, he urged them to avoid making public statements that Moscow might perceive as a provocation. In particular, the American side drew attention to statements by European politicians who had compared the Russian president Vladimir Putin like a rat cornered.
At the end of September, the Prime Minister of Estonia used a similar comparison Kristen Michal, commenting on Russia’s possible involvement in acts of sabotage in Europe.
According to the agency’s sources, US officials did not issue any ultimatums. The discussions were conducted in a diplomatic tone.
One European official summarised Washington’s position as follows: the US continues to support its allies, but expects them to make less high-profile public statements.
Opinions within NATO are divided on the Russian threat
The Pentagon’s statements have provoked a mixed reaction among European officials.
Some NATO representatives believe that excessively alarmist rhetoric may help the Kremlin to spread fear amongst the European public and undermine support for Ukraine.
Others emphasise the need to speak openly about threats in order to explain to the public the need to increase defence spending.
Reports from Western intelligence agencies regarding a possible increase in Russian sabotage operations in Europe are a cause for particular concern.
Russia denies any involvement in such operations.
Washington is resuming talks on ending the war
The Pentagon’s statements come against the backdrop of new diplomatic efforts by the administration Donald Trump, aimed at end of war against Ukraine.
Washington is discussing a possible easing of sanctions against Russia whilst, at the same time, putting pressure on Kyiv to stop attacks on Russian energy infrastructure.
At the same time, the US Department of Defence is reviewing the size of its forces in Europe. A reduction in the US military contingent is one of the possible options under consideration.
The Pentagon declined to comment on reports of an appeal to allies, stating that private discussions between partners remain confidential.
