Russia Aims to Destroy NATO from Within, Says German Defense Minister

The German Defense Minister has stated that he does not believe in the possibility of a large-scale conflict between Russia and NATO. Boris Pistorius made this declaration in an interview with Die Zeit, commenting on NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte's assertion that Russia could use force against the alliance within the next five years.

Pistorius speculated that Rutte “wanted to clearly visualize what could happen.” He said, “I do not believe in such a scenario. In my opinion, Vladimir Putin does not aspire to a large-scale global war against NATO. He wants to destroy NATO from within by undermining its unity.”

According to him, Russia is strategically working to force the United States to withdraw its fighters from Europe. Pistorius noted that Germany is increasing the number of active soldiers, strengthening its reserves, and accelerating arms purchases.