A fresh analysis from the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) has raised concerns over an increasingly plausible conflict between NATO and Russia, a scenario that appears closer than many analysts have previously anticipated.
According to the think tank's latest findings, a confluence of financial, economic, and military indicators suggests that Russia is actively preparing for a large-scale conventional conflict with NATO.
On March 19th, Russian President Vladimir Putin met with key figures from Russia's State Duma, outlining his priorities for his fifth term in office.
The ISW report highlights that the feasibility of the Russian military's threat will largely hinge on economic resources. In particular, the meeting revealed Putin's expectation that wealthy industrialists would bear a significant economic burden, sparking speculation on the willingness of Russia's elite to absorb such financial impacts.
The report also references comments from Danish Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen, who warned in February based on new intelligence that Russia might consider an attack on a NATO member within the next three to five years.
Adding to the chorus of concerns, Polish President Andrzej Duda was cited for his remarks in a CNBC interview, suggesting Putin's shift towards a war economy aims to enable an assault on a NATO country by 2026 or 2027.
This alarming outlook underscores the urgent need for vigilance and preparedness among NATO members, as the signs of looming confrontation gather momentum. The ISW's insights provide a crucial perspective on the strategic calculations and potential risks facing the alliance, highlighting the importance of a unified and robust response to emerging threats.
