Most NATO commanders see risk of Russian attack by 2029 – Czech general
Russia could attack NATO by 2029, Alliance ready to respond (Photo: REUTERS/Pascal Rossignol)
Czech Armed Forces Chief of the General Staff Karel Řehka warned that Russia could attack NATO by 2029, stressing the need for credible deterrence, military readiness and collective defense, in an interview with Ukrinform on March 19.
The general said that many defense leaders share the view of German General Carsten Breuer that Russia could attack NATO by 2029.
He said he was not claiming that war is inevitable but stressed its potential reality. According to him, to avoid such a scenario, NATO and its partners must maintain credible deterrence, including real defense capabilities, capacity and the readiness to use them.
The general also noted that the war in Ukraine exposed serious miscalculations by Russia, which did not expect a prolonged conflict with heavy monthly losses, and stressed that Western countries must prevent similar miscalculations against other states.
Asked about NATO’s ability to respond quickly to provocations, the Czech chief of the General Staff said military forces are capable of acting even amid shortages of stockpiles, ammunition and resources caused by years of underfunding. He stressed that, if necessary, NATO would fight with the means it has without hesitation.
“Let me be clear: if this were to happen tomorrow, we would fight with what we have. Without hesitation… As for NATO’s political cohesion — yes, I absolutely believe we would activate collective defense if necessary. Because there is no alternative: if that did not happen, it would be the end of NATO. I believe everyone understands that such a situation would be a tragedy for all of us. And that is exactly what Russia wants,” Karel Rehka said.
On Feb. 23, Russia’s Security Council Deputy Chairman Dmitry Medvedev threatened the EU in response to an initiative to restrict entry of former Russian military personnel into the Schengen area.
“Well, they can enter without visas if they want. As in 1812 or 1945,” he wrote.
On Feb. 10, it was reported that Norway does not rule out the possibility of a Russian invasion and is preparing for a scenario in which Russia could attempt to seize part of its territory.
In addition, Estonia’s foreign intelligence service said Russia does not intend to launch a military attack on NATO in 2026–2027 but will continue rebuilding its armed forces amid concerns over EU rearmament.
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