Italy Warns of Russia Threat, Citing Ukraine War and NATO Concerns
The warnings from Italy and the US come as Russia continues to mobilize troops and engage in hybrid operations against European states, with potential risks to regional stability and security. The situation in Ukraine remains a key concern, with the potential for a "bad peace" to lead to further conflict in the region.
Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto has warned that Russia could pose a military threat to NATO territory within five years, citing Russia's continued production of military equipment and public support for the war in Ukraine. This warning comes as Russia has mobilized an additional 300,000 troops in six months, despite losing over one million soldiers, including 200,000 in the first half of this year.
NATO members have agreed to increase defense spending as a percentage of GDP, and Italy has already allocated funds in its national budget without cutting healthcare or pension systems. This move is seen as a response to the growing threat from Russia, which has been engaged in a campaign of sabotage, cyber attacks, and hybrid operations against European states. A top US defense analyst, Michael Cecire, has also warned that a "bad peace" imposed on Ukraine could lead to a new age of European conflict, with Russia potentially launching an attack on NATO within 5-10 years.
Cecire, a researcher at the RAND Corporation, testified before the US Helsinki Commission that Russia's ongoing campaign against European states, combined with its ability to sustain and regenerate its forces, and maximalist demands for control over Ukraine and Europe, pose a significant threat to European security and US national interests. He also highlighted the potential risks to Moldova, a NATO ally, and the precedent that a Russian victory in Ukraine would set for further aggression in the region. Additionally, China's financial and material support for Russia's aggression in Ukraine and Europe also poses a significant threat to regional stability.
As tensions between Russia and NATO continue to escalate, Italy's warning serves as a reminder of the importance of increased defense spending and cooperation among NATO members to counter the growing threat from Russia. With the conflict in Ukraine showing no signs of abating, the international community remains on high alert, bracing for potential further aggression from Russia and its allies.