The Secretary General of NATO, Mark Rutte, has indicated that Russia will continue to pose a threat to the alliance even after a potential peace agreement with Ukraine.
Rutte stated, “Let us first conclude a peace agreement, and then we will see what happens. But for NATO, it is now absolutely clear that Russia represents a long-term threat to the entire NATO territory.” He urged Russian citizens to do everything possible to halt the war, which he noted is causing significant destruction, including within Russia itself.
In discussing Russian military losses, Rutte highlighted that the Russian army reported a decrease of 35,000 soldiers in December and 30,000 in January, surpassing the number of recruits during the same period. He remarked, “These losses do not affect Moscow and St. Petersburg, so the elite may not encounter this directly. However, this will happen soon, as with such a number of casualties in direct combat, it is inevitable that it will impact both Moscow and St. Petersburg.”
Rutte also mentioned that NATO would likely prevail in any conflict with Russia should Moscow choose to attack the alliance at this time. However, he emphasized the importance of ensuring that this situation remains unchanged in the years to come.
Western officials generally believe that Russia is preparing for a potential conflict with NATO. According to Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans, this could occur by 2030. Additionally, statements from the German command suggest that they estimate a 2-3 year timeframe before a Russian attack on NATO countries, with Germany expected to be at the center of any such developments as a key member of the alliance.
Mark Rutte, NATO's Secretary General, has asserted that Russia will remain a long-term threat to the alliance, even after a potential peace with Ukraine. He emphasized the significant military losses Russia has sustained and the need for vigilance against future aggression.