Russia could start a limited military campaign against a NATO country a year after the end of the war in Ukraine, the Dutch Ministry of Defense warned on Monday.
In its annual defense policy strategy document, the ministry said Europe was in a “gray zone” between war and peace and pledged to increase Dutch defense investment, particularly in unmanned weapons such as drones.
“of the Netherlands intelligence services estimate that Russia is preparing for a long-term confrontation with Europe,” the ministry said in a report. “At worst, a limited war against NATO member states could start within a year after the end of Russia’s war in Ukraine,” the officials warned.
Also the Secretary General of NATO Mark Rite said that Russia “could be ready to use military force against NATO within five years”.
To counter this threat, the Netherlands has set a goal to have half of its operational capabilities unmanned within five years. To achieve this, the Dutch government plans to set up a special laboratory to design and build drones capable of combating other drones.
“The question is whether Europe and the Netherlands will become strong enough soon enough to protect our freedom, security and way of life,” Dutch Defense Minister Dylan Jeshilges said. “It is the responsibility of every generation, but rarely has it been so urgent,” she added.
