NATO Official: Putin Is Bluffing About Readiness for War With Europe

A senior NATO official believes that Russian leader Vladimir Putin is bluffing about his readiness to wage war against Europe, European Pravda reported on December 2.

Speaking to journalists on condition of anonymity ahead of a NATO ministerial meeting, the official stated that while the Alliance is aware of Putin’s recent declarations, it does not interpret them as a sign of real intent.

“Putin may say he’s ready for war. But when Putin says something— it often doesn’t turn out to be true. And in any case, I do not believe Vladimir Putin is ready for war with Europe,” the official said.

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The NATO representative acknowledged that Russia’s military capabilities remain significant, particularly due to the experience it has gained from its war in Ukraine. However, this does not, in the Alliance’s view, make Putin’s threats credible.

“He is not ready. But I’m not saying that Russia is not producing enough military equipment, and I’m not saying that Russia lacks the military capability or economic base for such a campaign. And of course, that doesn’t mean Russia doesn’t want to change Europe’s security architecture,” the official said. “The reason is that he knows NATO will defend itself—and even if he has the capability to wage war, he doesn’t have the capability to win.”

“And most importantly—I believe Putin understands that NATO is now incredibly united in defending its allies,” the senior official concluded.

Earlier, it was reported that NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte announced that the North Atlantic Alliance will take part in discussions about the NATO-related elements of a potential peace agreement between Ukraine and Russia.

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