NATO Commander Says 32 Allies Could Respond Tonight as Baltic Attack Risk Stays Low
Updated
Updated · Новости · Jun 11
NATO Commander Says 32 Allies Could Respond Tonight as Baltic Attack Risk Stays Low
1 articles · Updated · Новости · Jun 11
Summary
Alexus Grinkevich said the risk of a Russian attack on Latvia, Lithuania or Estonia is low, arguing Moscow is not seeking direct conflict with NATO.
32 NATO members could respond "as early as tonight," he said, citing the alliance's defensive posture and asymmetric advantages that Russia cannot match.
Grinkevich still warned the Kremlin could stage provocations in the Baltics under the pretext of protecting Russians, aiming less to seize territory than to test NATO unity.
The assessment comes after he announced a 5,000-troop U.S. drawdown from Europe in May, while insisting the reduction would not weaken NATO defenses.
Baltic security concerns remain elevated as NATO reinforces its eastern flank and some regional officials warn Russia could build capacity for an attack by 2028.
Why is the U.S. withdrawing troops from Europe while its top commander warns of Russian provocations designed to test NATO?
With Russia using cheap drones and disinformation, is NATO's expensive military might becoming obsolete in modern 'shadow warfare'?
NATO in 2026: Reinforcing the Eastern Flank, Countering Russian Hybrid Threats, and the Battle for Political Unity
Overview
As of June 2026, NATO’s immediate stance is shaped by a strong reaffirmation of the United States’ commitment to the Alliance, highlighted by Rutte’s recent statement emphasizing US dedication to collective security. This declaration reinforces solidarity and mutual defense among member states. However, strategic discussions reveal concerns about the practical aspects of this commitment, especially if US military presence in Europe is reduced. Experts warn that any decrease could send the wrong signal to both allies and Russia, making it crucial for the US to maintain visible support and for NATO to closely monitor its readiness and deployment levels.