During a recent visit to a Russian military support point, President Vladimir Putin addressed the leadership of the General Staff and military commanders. According to Kremlin propagandist Pavel Zarubin, part of the meeting was recorded and shared publicly.
Putin emphasized the necessity of continuing the analysis of each “instigator’s” involvement in prolonging the war in Ukraine. He stated, “An analysis of their involvement in actual combat actions must be conducted.” This assessment, according to Putin, is needed for the “possible adoption of responsible decisions” in the future.
Though he did not specify what decisions he was considering, reports have indicated that the United States warned Poland of the potential for Russia to stage provocations against NATO in the coming months. Such actions could involve attacks on critical infrastructure or hybrid warfare tactics to test the Alliance’s reactions and undermine support for Ukraine.
Context
- In recent years, European political and military leaders have repeatedly voiced concerns about the threat of a Russian attack on NATO’s eastern flank.
- German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius noted that Russia could target NATO by 2029. Norwegian Army Chief Eirik Kristoffersen suggested that NATO has two to three years to prepare for a potential war with Russia.
