NATO Declares Absence of Russian Plans to Attack Alliance

The head of NATO's Military Committee, Rob Bauer, believes that Russia is not planning to attack the countries of the alliance. Moreover, in his opinion, Moscow's ambitions extend beyond Ukraine.

“There are no signs that Russia plans to attack any NATO member country. I don’t think there is an immediate threat. The issue is that Russia's ambitions go beyond the borders of Ukraine. We know this, so the alliance, in general, must be better prepared,” Bauer told reporters (as quoted by The Baltic Times).

The NATO Military Committee head also noted that Article 5 of NATO’s Treaty on collective defense can be invoked not only in the case of a direct attack but also, for example, in the event of a cyberattack.

In addition, Bauer commented on the possibility of a change in leadership in the United States. He stated that he does not fear Donald Trump winning the elections. In his view, the Republican statements were directed not against the alliance but regarding the insufficient funding for defense by certain countries. Bauer indicated that NATO members are already prepared to pay more.

Earlier, in March, Rob Bauer had stated NATO’s readiness regarding the conflict with Russia. In January, he mentioned that the alliance's forces are preparing for a large-scale war with Russia over the next two decades. He urged the authorities of NATO member countries and their civilian population to prepare for conflict and possible conscription.

Russian authorities have repeatedly stated that there are no plans to attack NATO countries. President Vladimir Putin has said that Russia has no aggressive intentions towards European countries.