NATO Ready for Possible War with Russia: Official
Kiev, March 23 (IANS) – The visiting chair of the NATO Military Committee, Robert Bauer, stated that the alliance is prepared for a potential conflict with Russia, as reported by a media outlet. “Are we ready? The answer is yes! This is our main task to be ready. If it happens today, we will have to fight with available means,” Bauer was cited as saying on Friday as quoted by Xinhua news agency report.
Bauer highlighted NATO’s reinforcement of its eastern flank in recent years, with the launch of an Enhanced Forward Presence (EFP) operation in Baltic countries, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, and Bulgaria. Currently, NATO has eight battalion-size battlegroups that can defend against a possible Russian incursion on the alliance’s eastern border.
The official made his first visit to Kiev since the outbreak of the full-scale conflict between Russia and Ukraine in February 2022. During his trip, Bauer met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and took part in the 16th annual Kyiv Security Forum, as per local media reports. NATO’s commitment to readiness and support for Ukraine in the face of regional tensions remains a key focus for the alliance.
The situation in Eastern Europe continues to be of concern, with NATO’s strategic positioning and preparedness being closely monitored. As tensions persist between NATO members and Russia, the alliance’s emphasis on defense capabilities and unity is crucial in maintaining regional stability. The ongoing dialogue between NATO officials and Ukrainian leadership underscores the importance of cooperation in addressing security challenges in the region.
