Rutte: NATO could be Russia's next target

Rutte: NATO could be Russia's next target, Alliance must prepare for a war on the scale of the twentieth century

NATO Secretary General Mark Rütte warned that Russia may consider Alliance as the next goal after Ukraine, and Europe cannot afford to deceive itself about the real threats.

«I am afraid that too many people are calm about the situation, too many do not feel the urgency, and too many believe that time is on our side. That is not the case,» Rutte said.

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He stressed that member states should prepare for the scale of the war that our grandparents and great-grandparents experienced, Russia is demonstrating its readiness for a long-term conflict.

What exactly is NATO's concern

- Russia is increasing its arms production and mobilisation resources;
- Moscow continues its aggressive policy towards Ukraine and the West;
- The Kremlin does not hide its revanchist ambitions for the borders of Europe;
- Some allies still underestimate the speed and scale of possible challenges.

Rutte emphasised that NATO needs to significantly Increase defence budgets, the military industry and combat readiness.

Context.

- Earlier, Rutte said that Europe should prepare for a world without automatic US guarantees after 2027.
- NATO countries are actively increasing defence spending, but the pace is still below the need.
- Ukraine remains the main line of deterrence against Russian aggression.