In a clear signal to allies and adversaries alike, NATO is stepping up intelligence‑sharing efforts to counter a wave of sabotage incidents that appear linked to Russia. U.S. Air Force General Alexus Grynkewich, NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander Europe, told Reuters the alliance has the tools and mechanisms needed to manage the risk and remain “calm and confident.”
Russian‑linked incidents spark heightened vigilance
Denmark’s defence intelligence service warned that Russia is likely to intensify a hybrid war – a blend of covert attacks below the level of a conventional assault – against the West in the coming months. The service noted a “low but growing risk” that Moscow could launch a limited military strike against one or more NATO members that share a border with Russia.
General Grynkewich cited recent events, including an attempted drone attack at Germany’s Leipzig/Halle Airport and a Russian vessel firing flares toward a Danish military helicopter, as evidence of the escalating threat. While he called such a limited attack “unlikely,” he stressed that NATO cannot rule it out and must stay prepared.
Trump’s demand reshapes NATO command
The ongoing reshuffle of NATO’s command structure reflects President Donald Trump’s longstanding call for European nations to assume greater responsibility for their own security. The recent handover of NATO’s Joint Force Command Norfolk to a European commander is part of a broader effort to place a European officer in charge of NATO’s Joint Force Command in Naples.
Grynkewich, speaking en route to a change‑of‑command ceremony in Norfolk, Virginia, said Washington will continue to provide “critical but more limited capabilities” as European allies step up. He noted there is “no predetermined outcome” regarding the number of U.S. troops that will remain on the continent, which currently host about 80,000 service members.
Alliance confidence amid uncertainty
Despite the heightened threat environment, General Grynkewich emphasized NATO’s readiness. He rejected any notion that Russian President Vladimir Putin might see an opening to strike, stating, “Absolutely not. He better not try it on my watch.” He added that the alliance is well positioned to defend every inch of its territory.
Grynkewich also highlighted the alliance’s ability to act swiftly on emerging threats, saying he now has the authority to take decisive actions to deter aggression.
What this means for Americans
For U.S. citizens, the increased intelligence cooperation and the shift toward greater European burden sharing aim to preserve the security guarantees that have underpinned transatlantic stability for decades. While the United States will maintain a vital role, the Trump administration’s push for a more balanced partnership seeks to ensure that American resources are focused where they are most needed, including ongoing commitments in the Indo‑Pacific.
As the alliance adapts to evolving threats, the message from NATO’s top commander is clear: vigilance, confidence, and a united front remain the cornerstone of collective defense.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
