NATO countries could become Russia's next military target after Ukraine within the next five years, warned NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at a press conference in Berlin on Thursday, LETA reports citing RFE/RL.
"We are Russia's next target. I am alarmed that many are silently carefree, too many do not have a sense of urgency, and many think that time is on our side. It is not. The time to act is now," emphasized the head of the alliance.
According to Rutte, Russia has intensified diversions and operations against European countries aimed at civilian, military, and critical infrastructure.
He mentioned the explosion on the railway in Poland, the violation of Estonia's airspace by a Russian fighter jet, and the appearance of drones near the airports of several European countries.
War can only be prevented by preparing NATO countries for defense, including significantly increasing security spending, Rutte noted.
"Conflict is at our doorstep. Russia has brought war to Europe. We must be ready for military actions on the same scale that our grandfathers and great-grandfathers experienced," stated the Secretary General.
"Imagine a conflict that affects every home, every workplace — destruction, mass mobilization, millions of displaced people, widespread suffering and loss," listed the head of the alliance.
"It is a frightening thought, but if we fulfill our commitments, we can prevent tragedy," said Rutte.
He also urged NATO countries to continue supporting Ukraine.
According to Rutte, Russian President Vladimir Putin acts unpredictably, and when assessing the threat from Russia, it is necessary to rely on facts.
"There is a dictator willing to sacrifice 1.1 million of his citizens for a mad idea of some historical destiny," said Rutte about Putin.
NATO countries agreed at the beginning of 2025 to increase defense spending to 5% of GDP by 2035, however, Rutte stated that this process needs to be accelerated.
