After Ukraine, Russia has eyes on other NATO-allied countries? US intel claims Vladimir Putin seeks to…

US intelligence assessments indicate that Russian President Vladimir Putin may consider limited military operations against a NATO ally in the coming years to gauge the alliance's response, according to three sources familiar with the latest intelligence. These operations could involve hybrid tactics, cyberattacks, and other deniable activities that avoid full-scale conventional warfare.

The assessments suggest Putin has altered his risk calculus compared to a few months ago, demonstrating a greater willingness to test NATO's response without directly initiating a conventional conflict. In a recent statement, Putin accused Western nations of adopting double standards in their approach to international conflicts, particularly regarding the UN Charter and the principle of national self-determination.

He also criticized Western sanctions as ineffective, claiming Russia's adversaries have resorted to terrorist methods to undermine the Russian people. Despite these claims, Putin declared that Russia will achieve its objectives in the ongoing military operation in Ukraine. Meanwhile, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte emphasized the immediate threat Russia poses to Europe and North America, highlighting NATO's ongoing efforts to counter Russian incursions and safeguard the alliance's eastern flank.

Rutte praised the collective defense measures taken by European allies, such as the Italians, Finns, and Swedes, in response to Russian military actions. He stressed that NATO's purpose remains to protect its members from external threats while fostering broader transatlantic security, including the United States and Canada. Rutte reminded that the alliance's founding principles aim to keep Russia out and the United States in, ensuring the security of both regions.