The NATO Secretary General warned that Russia might launch attacks on NATO member states within the next five years, even though Putin previously insisted that Russia does not want to fight Europe.
On Thursday, 11 Dec 2025 GMT+7, Mark Rutte, NATO Secretary General, warned during a visit to Germany that Russia could attack NATO member countries within the next five years.
Rutte said, "Russia is already escalating covert operations against our societies," adding, "We must prepare for a large-scale war like that faced by our grandparents and great-grandparents."
Rutte's remarks align with intelligence from several Western countries, although the Russian government denies these allegations, calling them exaggerated panic.
Earlier this month, Vladimir Putin, Russian President, affirmed that his country does not plan to wage war on Europe but is ready "immediately" if Europe desires—or initiates—war.
Moscow made similar promises in 2022 before nearly 200,000 Russian troops crossed the border and attacked Ukraine.
Rutte’s warning comes as U.S. President Donald Trump seeks to end the war in Ukraine by proposing a peace plan that heavily favors Russia, including Ukraine ceding the Russian-occupied Donbas region in the east.
Currently, Ukrainian and U.S. officials are negotiating to amend the peace plan's terms, while Europe tries to become involved in the peace process to assist Ukraine. However, Putin accuses European nations of obstructing U.S. efforts to bring peace to Ukraine.
Rutte said, "Putin is insincere," emphasizing that supporting Ukraine guarantees Europe's security. "Imagine if Putin succeeds: Ukraine would be under Russian occupation, his forces would be closer along NATO’s extended border, and the risk of armed attacks against us would greatly increase."
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Source:bbc