Merz warns which countries could be Russia's next targets
Photo: German Chancellor Friedrich Merz (Getty Images)
Russia is actively preparing to expand its military aggression across Europe, putting several countries at risk, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated during a press conference in Berlin.
According to Merz, the Kremlin's expansion plans go far beyond the current war. He Merz emphasized that Moscow is eyeing a broader front for future strikes.
"We see evidence of Russia's preparation for further aggression. It goes far beyond Ukraine. It threatens the Baltic states, Moldova, and other parts of Europe," the German Chancellor said.
Hybrid war against Germany
Because of its central location in Europe, Germany is already feeling the effects of the Kremlin's hostile actions. Merz outlined the key forms of Russian influence in the country:
- large-scale sabotage on German territory;
- ongoing espionage attempts;
- cyberattacks targeting critical information networks.
"We are not living in a state of war, but we are no longer living in peace either," Merz said.
He added that because of these threats, Germany has been forced to rebuild its defense capabilities quickly.
Commenting on concerns that Russia could take advantage of the time Europe needs to rearm, Merz said he remains confident in NATO's strength. In his view, NATO still maintains a sufficient level of deterrence, and there is full consensus within the alliance on the need to strengthen defenses.
Earlier, Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda said his country has intelligence indicating that Russia is preparing new acts of aggression. According to him, the Russian leader wants to test the unity of NATO.
Meanwhile, Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski said Warsaw expects a possible Russian provocation in which Moscow could use Ukrainian drones.
