WARSAW, Poland (AP) — NATO's top military commander, U.S. General Alexus Grynkewich, stated that the alliance is "ready to fight tonight" if attacked, amid warnings from European officials about potential covert Russian actions against NATO. Recent months have seen an increase in covert Russian activities, including an arson attack on an Estonian defense company and a failed attempt to target a Ukrainian aircraft at a German airport.
Grynkewich, speaking at the Warsaw Security Forum, emphasized that NATO would respond to any attack using sensors, autonomous systems, and military force. He noted that while he does not believe a conflict is imminent, preparing for war and maintaining communication are essential for preserving peace.
The NATO commander did not provide specific details regarding the nature of potential attacks or the forces involved. However, he outlined a response strategy that includes blocking initial attacks, preventing enemy advances, and, if necessary, dismantling the enemy's operational capabilities.
Recent warnings from European officials and intelligence services suggest that Russia may be planning to test NATO's defenses through increased covert attacks or limited military incursions. Denmark's defense intelligence service has indicated that Russia could employ tactics aimed at dividing the NATO alliance.
Grynkewich acknowledged the political implications of troop deployments, referencing U.S. President Donald Trump's agreement to purchase diesel from Russia and the implications for U.S. military presence in Europe. He stressed the importance of a coordinated NATO response to Russian activities to clarify the alliance's red lines and suggested that increased support for Ukraine is a key component of this strategy.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk warned of potential Russian drone or rocket strikes against European nations supporting Ukraine, while Denmark's Defense Intelligence Agency noted a "low but growing risk" of limited military attacks on NATO countries bordering Russia.
Despite NATO's preparedness, Grynkewich mentioned that some member nations have faced challenges in exercises simulating drone warfare and detecting incursions. Incidents involving drones have occurred in NATO countries bordering Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus.
In September, Germany accused Russia of plotting to use a drone to attack a Ukrainian aircraft at Leipzig airport, while British officials reported thwarting a Russian plan targeting a drone facility near London. These incidents are part of over 211 actions attributed to Russia by Western officials since the invasion of Ukraine.
Denmark's defense intelligence service has suggested that Russia might attempt to use Ukrainian drones to conduct attacks in Europe, potentially disguising their involvement. Tusk indicated that Russia may present such attacks as "accidental" to weaken NATO's resolve to respond to member states under threat. However, both the Danish service and Grynkewich noted that while Russia is engaged in Ukraine, launching a direct attack on NATO would be challenging.