Pistorius warns that Russia could launch an attack on NATO countries within the next five years.

Given the growth of the Russian army, there remains a theoretical possibility that the Russian Federation may attempt to attack NATO countries in 2029-2030. This makes it particularly crucial to ensure the Alliance's defense capabilities by that time.

This was stated by Germany's Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, as reported by RBK-Ukraine citing Delfi.

"Military experts are closely monitoring the events in Russia. The military industry there is significantly advancing, with a large number of tanks and aircraft being produced, which indicates that the Russian armed forces are growing substantially. By 2026, their numbers are likely to increase to 1.5 million soldiers," said Pistorius.

According to him, military experts believe that "Putin may reorganize his armed forces in 2029-2030 to create the necessary conditions for a possible theoretical attack on other countries," particularly NATO member states.

"Therefore, we must ensure our defense capabilities before that time. This task certainly requires both time and resources, but we are committed to achieving this goal," emphasized the German minister.

Threat to NATO from Russia

Recall that recently the head of the Federal Intelligence Service of Germany (BND), Bruno Kahl, stated that Russia may attack NATO territory in the coming years.

At the same time, he clarified that this does not currently involve a large-scale war. Moscow may conduct a limited operation.

In his view, such an operation could involve an invasion of the Norwegian Arctic island of Svalbard for the purpose of "clearing the territory." The Baltic states are also at risk.

Meanwhile, Latvia's Foreign Minister Baiba Broka believes that Russia is unlikely to invade a NATO country right now as it is exhausted from the full-scale war against Ukraine.