Former CIA director: Lithuania could be next on Putin's radar
American David Petraeus, a former military officer and CIA director, warns that if Vladimir Putin succeeds in Ukraine, Lithuania could become Russia's next target. As the "Daily Mail" adds, this way the Russian dictator may test NATO's unity.
David Petraeus, former CIA director and a U.S. Army general, gave a speech in London on Thursday. The military officer confirmed that Vladimir Putin wants to overthrow Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, install a "puppet leader" in Kyiv, and gain control over all of Ukraine. "Once that's done, you are going to see them focus on one of the Baltic states," quoted the "Daily Mail".
He claims that Lithuania may be Russia's next target if Vladimir Putin succeeds in Ukraine. According to the general, Russia could launch an attack on this Baltic country to test the West's determination or as a prelude to a broader offensive, as reported by the "Daily Mail".
Petraeus argues that an attack on Lithuania may not be an isolated event, but part of a long-term plan. The former CIA director said that Lithuania has always featured prominently in Putin's speeches.
Petraeus also criticized U.S. policy towards Ukraine, pointing out delays in delivering essential military equipment. He emphasized that such delays were "very unhelpful to the Ukrainians", who had to wait for decisions that were ultimately made too late.
We'll see this time what actually happens. The US also temporised far too long over individual decisions such as M1 [Abrams] tanks. A blind man on a dark night could see it had to be the F-16 [a multi- role fighter aircraft], said Petraeus, criticizing Donald Trump's policy.
Petraeus pointed out the massive losses for Russia, which he described as "unimaginable." It is estimated that nearly a million Russians have been wounded or killed on the battlefield.
