Germany’s intelligence agency and military have warned that Russia might be getting ready for a major war against NATO, according to the newspaper Bild. They say President Vladimir Putin sees the West as an enemy and is willing to use military force to reach his goals.
The report says Russia could be fully ready for a big traditional war by the end of this decade. Right now, Lithuania’s intelligence agency believes Russia doesn’t have the power to attack all NATO countries at once. However, it might try a smaller attack on one or two NATO members to see how the Alliance reacts.
Even though many Russian troops are still fighting in Ukraine, the Russian Air Force and Navy are still strong. Once the Ukraine war ends, Russian troops could be quickly moved to areas near the Baltic countries. The report also says Russia is replacing its losses and its military factories are making more weapons than needed for the current war.
Russia’s military spending is growing fast and is expected to reach around 120 billion euros in 2025, which is over 6% of its total economy. Since 2021, Russia’s military budget has increased four times. The Russian government plans to increase its army to 1.5 million soldiers, and also wants to grow the number of weapons and equipment near NATO borders by 30–50%.
Tensions between Russia and NATO remain high since the start of the Ukraine war. Russian leaders often threaten NATO countries, talk about using nuclear weapons, and carry out military drills near NATO areas.
Western countries continue to support Ukraine by sending weapons and increasing sanctions against Russia.
Last year, Estonia’s intelligence service also warned that Russia might be getting ready for a future war, possibly with NATO. Germany’s Defense Minister said a conflict between Russia and NATO could happen and urged NATO members to stay alert and be ready.
Lithuania’s president said recently that Russia could attack again in a few years, and that his country has about four to five years to get ready.
