Berlin – NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte has issued a stark warning, suggesting that a global conflict with Russia could devastate Europe and impact every household. He urged European nations to prepare for a potential war on a scale not seen since the times of their parents and grandparents.
Speaking in Berlin on Thursday, Rutte stated that NATO must recognize that “Russia considers us the next target.” He cautioned that a potential war could reach “every home and workplace, causing immense destruction, displacement of millions, widespread suffering, and significant losses.”
Rutte emphasized that while this scenario is alarming, it can be averted if Europe commits to strengthening its defenses. His remarks come amid heightened tensions between NATO members and Russia in recent weeks, fueled by several incidents.
The Secretary-General’s warning follows the death of British paratrooper George Holley on Tuesday in a non-combat incident during the observation of a Ukrainian military test of a new defense technology.
i Paper highlighted Rutte’s statements, noting that Russia accused Britain of assisting Ukraine in carrying out “terrorist attacks” on the same day. Moscow has asserted that any foreign forces in Ukraine are legitimate targets, a statement perceived as a direct threat by European nations.
London responded by affirming that Russia alone bears responsibility for the “illegal war” in Ukraine. The conflict in Ukraine has prompted several European countries to reinstate or consider reinstating mandatory military service.
Meanwhile, the British Ministry of Defense reported that a Russian submarine conducted an “operation” in the English Channel over three days. A Merlin helicopter and a British Navy vessel, in coordination with NATO forces, tracked the submarine. The Ministry of Defense also cautioned that the passage of Russian ships through British waters has increased by 30% in the past two years.
