At the Warsaw Security Forum on Monday, NATO’s top military leader, U.S. General Alexus Grynkewich, warned that the alliance is “ready to fight tonight” if Russia attempts an attack. The remarks come amid a wave of covert Russian sabotage across the continent, including an arson incident at an Estonian defense firm and a foiled attempt to target a Ukrainian aircraft at a German airport.
Preparedness as deterrence
Grynkewich outlined NATO’s “Theory of Victory,” emphasizing that the alliance does not seek war but must be prepared to defend its members. He said NATO’s combined land, sea and air forces would block an initial strike, blunt any continued assault, and, if necessary, break the enemy’s operational system.
The commander stressed the importance of sensors, autonomous systems and a coordinated response to deny Russia any ability to seize territory. He added that a coherent NATO reaction would make clear to Moscow where the alliance’s red lines lie.
European concerns and intelligence warnings
European officials have warned that Russia may test NATO with increased covert attacks or a limited incursion. Denmark’s defense intelligence service flagged a “low but growing risk” of a restricted military strike against NATO members bordering Russia. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk warned of possible drone or rocket strikes on allies supporting Ukraine.
Recent incidents include a suspected Russian plot at Leipzig airport, a thwarted attack on a drone facility outside London, and a fire at an Estonian defense company. Since the invasion of Ukraine, Western officials have attributed at least 211 sabotage events to Russia.
Trump’s diesel deal adds a new wrinkle
President Donald Trump has drawn attention in Europe by agreeing to purchase diesel from Russia in an effort to lower U.S. fuel prices ahead of the midterm elections. Earlier this year, Trump announced a pull‑back of American troops from Europe and cited the war with Iran as a cause of critical shortages of advanced air‑defense missiles for European allies.
When asked whether the diesel agreement would affect NATO’s commitment, Grynkewich replied, “Ultimately it’s a political decision where troops are deployed, but no one should question the U.S. commitment to the alliance.” He urged NATO members to double down on support for Ukraine and maintain a unified front.
Challenges in drone defense
While NATO is expanding its sensor network and autonomous systems, some member nations have struggled in exercises simulating drone warfare. Multiple attack drones have crashed in NATO countries bordering Russia, Ukraine and Belarus, and residents of Vilnius were told to seek shelter after a stray drone entered Lithuanian airspace.
Colonel Martin O’Donnell, Grynkewich’s spokesperson, said NATO nations are increasingly deploying ground sensors and other technology to detect and counter drones, though the network has yet to shoot down any hostile UAVs.
Looking ahead
Grynkewich concluded that NATO does not seek war but will not be caught by surprise if Russia attacks. He called for continued coordination among alliance members to ensure a swift, decisive response and to protect the security of Europe and its partners.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
