Alliance forces must prepare for the possibility of direct conflict with Russia on NATO soil within three years, according to a stark warning from the top allied commander in Europe.
Generalløytnant Christian Freuding emphasized that the alliance needs to be ready to fight, signaling a shift toward active combat preparedness rather than deterrence alone.
The assessment arrives as diplomatic pressure mounts on member states to increase defense spending.
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte has previously highlighted that several key allies are falling short of their financial commitments to support Ukraine’s defense against Russian aggression.
This shortfall complicates broader strategic planning and leaves the alliance vulnerable to escalation.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is expected to raise these funding gaps during upcoming summits with the G7, European Union, and NATO leaders.