ISLAMABAD: The European Union’s top diplomat has issued a stark warning, stating that Russia is actively preparing for long-term military aggression against Europe through sabotage, cyberattacks, and massive defense spending.
Addressing the European Parliament in Strasbourg, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas described Russia as a “direct threat to the European Union,” citing airspace violations, cyber intrusions, and attacks on energy infrastructure across the continent.
Kallas emphasized that Russia’s military budget now exceeds the total combined defense spending of all 27 EU member states.
She warned that Russia is investing more in defense this year than in health care, education, and social services combined — a clear signal, she said, of Moscow’s broader military ambitions.
Russia Preparing for Future Conflict, Say Officials
According to NATO estimates, Russia currently manufactures more weapons and ammunition in three months than all 32 NATO allies produce in a year.
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte believes Moscow may be capable of launching an attack on a NATO ally by the end of the decade.Kallas stressed that such unprecedented military expansion “is a long-term plan for long-term aggression” and urged EU nations to take collective action now, before it is too late.
Recent acts of Russian sabotage and cyberwarfare are reportedly aimed at weakening European resolve in supporting Ukraine.
Intelligence officials across Europe fear these actions could eventually test NATO’s Article 5 — the alliance’s mutual defense clause.
European Security at a Crossroads
Germany’s foreign intelligence chief Bruno Kahl echoed these concerns, stating that Russia views Ukraine merely as a “step on the path to the West.” He warned that Moscow’s strategic objective is to eliminate U.S. influence from Europe and restore Russia’s pre-2000 sphere of control.
Kahl underscored the urgency of proactive deterrence, calling it the most effective way to avoid war.
As European reliance on U.S. defense support shifts toward regional self-reliance, NATO countries are expected to announce a significant increase in defense investments at an upcoming summit in the Netherlands.
The escalating situation underscores the need for swift, unified responses to prevent further destabilization.
