Rutte Warns Russia May Threaten NATO Security Within Five Years

English , International - بین الاقوامی , Snippets , / Thursday, December 11th, 2025

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Source: Anadolu Agency
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has warned that Russia could be in a position to launch a military attack against NATO within the next five years, urging member states to boost defense spending and reinforce the alliance’s deterrence.
Speaking at a Munich Security Conference event in Berlin, Rutte stressed the seriousness of the growing threat. “We need to be crystal clear about the danger. We are Russia’s next target,” he cautioned, pointing to Moscow’s rapidly expanding war-focused economy and military buildup.
Rutte noted that Russia has significantly increased weapons production during the war in Ukraine, manufacturing nearly 2,000 cruise and ballistic missiles this year and producing an estimated 2,900 attack drones each month. He warned that Moscow is simultaneously escalating hybrid warfare activities, including covert operations, sabotage of critical infrastructure, drone incursions, and violations of European airspace.
“NATO’s response to Russia’s provocations has been calm, decisive and proportionate,” he said. “But we must be prepared for further escalation and confrontation.” Rutte reaffirmed the alliance’s commitment to Article 5, emphasizing that an attack on any NATO member would trigger a powerful collective response.
In a panel discussion following his speech, Rutte praised Germany’s decision to increase defense spending and invest heavily in its armed forces, describing the move as essential for European security. He criticized those opposing such measures, stressing that the Russian threat remains immediate and real.
“If you love the German language and do not want to speak Russian, it is crucial,” Rutte warned, adding that Moscow’s ambitions extend beyond Ukraine. “Otherwise, this guy will not stop with Ukraine. We must remain vigilant.”