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NATO Already Preparing For Potential Russian Strikes On Energy Networks

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Inspection of damage to Reactor 4 containment at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant following a Russian drone strike. (Source: Getty Images)
Inspection of damage to Reactor 4 containment at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant following a Russian drone strike. (Source: Getty Images)

NATO is increasing efforts to protect critical energy infrastructure amid concerns that Russia could target such systems in the event of a broader confrontation with the Alliance.

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According to Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty on March 26, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte’s report for 2025 states that Russia’s war against Ukraine has demonstrated that energy infrastructure would likely become a primary target in any future attack on NATO members.

The document notes that Allies are already “identifying lessons learned from Ukraine” while strengthening training, exercises, and coordination to defend critical energy systems.

According to Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, the report reiterates that Russia remains “the most significant and direct threat to our security, peace and stability in the Euro-Atlantic area.” It also highlights continued Russian actions testing NATO, including airspace violations, sabotage, and cyber operations.

The report points to ongoing NATO exercises, including training conducted in September, aimed at improving resilience and ensuring the security of energy supply chains. It emphasizes the need for coordinated responses among member states in case of disruptions to critical infrastructure.

The document also outlines NATO’s longer-term approach to Ukraine, focusing on sustained military support and deeper integration. Plans include aligning Ukraine’s defense industry with that of NATO members, expanding cooperation, and attracting investment into the sector.

Defense spending across the Alliance continues to rise. European NATO members and Canada spent a combined $574 billion on defense in 2025, marking a 20% increase compared to the previous year. All 32 Allies have now reached the benchmark of spending at least 2% of GDP on defense, while the United States accounts for approximately 60% of total defense expenditures.

The report comes amid broader assessments of Russia’s long-term military ambitions. Earlier, according to Reuters, Lithuanian intelligence indicated that Russia aims to expand its military by up to 50% compared to pre-2022 levels and rebuild its stockpiles of weapons and ammunition. Reuters reported that, if sanctions were lifted, Russia could be ready for a new large-scale conflict within six years.

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