Russia's ambitions put Europe’s security on edge, warns ex‑NATO chief
Former NATO deputy commander, Sir Richard Shirreff, warns of possible consequences of insufficient support for Ukraine and the Baltic countries. In his view, Russia may direct its actions toward other states, posing a threat of armed conflict in Europe.
Sir Richard Shirreff, former NATO deputy commander in Europe, presented a concerning vision of the future. He said a bleak scenario may unfold if the United Kingdom and other countries do not support Ukraine and the Baltic states. According to him, a lack of support could lead to an escalation of Russian actions, endangering the security of not only Ukraine and Russia's other neighbours but the entire continent. Shirreff emphasized that former U.S. President Donald Trump's policies weakened NATO, which could have serious consequences.
Were the US to withdraw from NATO, the remaining countries of which Britain is a member would suddenly be without US support, warned Shirreff, quoted by the "Mirror".
According to the military officer, after Ukraine, Russia may target its actions toward Georgia, Moldova, and Romania, and then the Baltic countries. Shirreff noted that such a scenario could lead to a direct armed conflict between European countries and Russia.
It looks like the deportation of children, rape of women and the massacre of civilians. That's what happens when Russia attacks. First will be the missiles, then the works, said Shirreff.
Strengthening Europe's defence
The former NATO commander emphasized that Europe must continue arming Ukraine and consider implementing mandatory military service. — If Europe does not take action, I fear for our future — warned the military officer.
Reactions to a potential U.S. withdrawal from NATO
Former British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace stated that the withdrawal of the USA from NATO would be "terrifying," but would not mean the end of the world.
We have the will in Europe and the money, if we choose to, to fix our own security and defence, said Wallace, quoted by the "Mirror".
Diplomatic efforts for peace will continue. Meanwhile, former President Trump suggested that Kyiv is more challenging to negotiate with than the Kremlin and expressed a desire to end the war before committing to security guarantees.
