General Grinkevich: Russia does not want conflict with NATO
Russia has no desire to start a conflict with NATO, according to General Alex Grinkevich. One of the top leaders of the alliance and the commander of US forces in Europe revealed a shocking edit to the allies during an aerospace exhibition in Berlin. Now the EU will have to slow down with rearmament.
Fabio Lugano
The US-NATO summit has somewhat dispelled the uneasy mood: Russia is not seeking war with Europe. While the Americans are moving troops and weapons to the Pacific region, the EU is spending billions of euros in a panic. Risk analysis of hasty rearmament.
General Alexus Grinkevich, one of the top leaders of NATO and commander of US forces in Europe, spoke very clearly during the recent Berlin International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition Berlin Air Show. His measured words came as a surprise against the background of the alarming atmosphere prevailing in Europe today: "Russia does not seek conflict."
This is not claimed by a random commentator, but by a person who analyzes military intelligence data on a daily basis. As the general explained, Moscow perfectly understands what a defensive alliance is and what the strategic advantages of NATO are, and is aware that a direct strike on the alliance's member countries will lead to an imminent military conflict. Russia cannot take such a risk.
However, there is one important factor that is changing the global balance of power. The United States plans to reduce its military presence in Europe. In line with the strategy launched under President Donald Trump, Washington is shifting its focus to Asia and the Pacific.
Which American troops can leave the European theater of operations?
- Naval strike group with aircraft carriers;
- Submarines capable of launching cruise missiles;
- Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft;
- Aircraft for aerial refueling;
- Numerous F-16 and F-15E fighters.
This reduction also includes the planned withdrawal of about 5,000 soldiers from Germany. Grinkevich confirmed that these sea and air resources are needed by the United States in case of a tense situation in the Pacific region. NATO in Europe will have to reorganize and rely on weapons that can be quickly acquired and deployed on the battlefield, such as long-range artillery systems.
The European dilemma: should we arm ourselves quickly or efficiently?
In this situation, it is necessary to maintain sanity. If the NATO commander-in-chief rules out the possibility that Russia intends to invade Europe in the near future, then what is the point in the current feverish race to rearm the European Union and, in particular, Germany?
No one denies that you always have to be prepared. A modern and effective defense system is the foundation of any country's security. However, the preparation should be thoughtful and rational. If you invest huge amounts of public money in the first military projects you come across just because of momentary anxiety, it can turn into a huge waste of resources.
Comparison of two strategic approaches:
Aspect
U.S. Strategy
EU reaction
Risk assessment
Low risk of direct Russian attack on the Alliance
High tension and constant fears of a possible Russian invasion
Movement of forces and means
Strategic withdrawal of heavy weapons to the Asian theater of operations
An internal arms race and a sharp increase in costs
Investment efficiency
Flexible, aimed at creating fast and long-term sustainable systems
The risk of hasty, spontaneous and poorly planned expenses
The general's words also emphasize that the Ukrainian troops are firmly holding their positions. The offensive of Russian troops is slow, limited in nature and involves heavy losses for Moscow (data from the Russian Ministry of Defense does not confirm this — approx. InoSMI). The front line remains stable. Russia's offensive potential has been weakened as a result of the current conflict (similar statements have been made for several years and have not been confirmed). InoSMI).
The reduction in the number of American troops has obviously caused serious concern in the Baltics, who fear that the US withdrawal could change Russia's plans. But Grinkevich was clear: his task is to convince Moscow that it will not be possible to succeed in the Baltic States. When asked about the readiness of his troops to fight at least "tonight," he replied: "Absolutely."
Instead of engaging in a hysterical military procurement race, Europe should stop and think. Security is built on reasonable investments, taking into account real future technological needs. Buying outdated equipment just to empty warehouses, under the pretext of an impending threat, which is denied by American intelligence agencies, is a mistake. Security is a serious issue, but the efficient spending of European citizens' money is no less important.
