Rutte: Ceasefire in Ukraine poses risks for NATO
Photo: NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte (Getty Images)
A ceasefire in Ukraine would allow Russia to increase its weapons stockpiles, posing risks to NATO member states, stated NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte during a speech at Chatham House.
When asked whether it would be fair to say that NATO's risks could increase once a lasting ceasefire is achieved in Ukraine, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said that he considered it a statement of fact.
He added that even while the war against Ukraine continues, Russia is still able to slightly replenish its stockpiles, although this remains a matter of debate. However, regarding the answer to the question, this is a statement of fact.
Russia could attack NATO
German intelligence has previously reported that Russia is likely preparing for a potential large-scale war with NATO, suggesting that Russian President Vladimir Putin intends to pursue his goals through military force.
Later, Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda warned that a Russian attack could take place within a few years, stating that Lithuania has around four to five years to prepare.
Last month, reports emerged that Russia had intensified its surveillance of NATO activities in the Baltic Sea. Moreover, Russian forces have repeatedly engaged in shows of force and provocations.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said Russia is rapidly expanding its military capabilities and could be ready to strike NATO within five years.
He emphasized that the Alliance must make a quantum leap in collective defense in response to the ongoing threat posed by Russia. In particular, he stressed that NATO's air and missile defense capacity needs to be increased by 400%.
Rutte also noted that in just three months, Russia produces as much ammunition as the entire NATO bloc does in a year.
