Russia has long acted as an aggressor, not only through conventional military operations but also via hybrid tactics. These include weaponizing migration, damaging critical infrastructure under the Baltic Sea, smuggling banned goods, and circumventing oil sanctions. The Kremlin also influences Western political parties and exerts pressure via Russian capital invested in numerous countries. This influence has manifested in election interference, cyberattacks, and covert destabilization campaigns.
In terms of direct military threat, Russia is demonstratively reinforcing its armed forces. Military equipment production is growing, albeit below desired levels due to shortages of microchips and other components.
“We must not underestimate this threat,” said General Mieczysław Bieniek, advisor to Poland’s Minister of National Defense on Security and Strategy and former NATO Deputy Commander, in an interview with eNewsroom. “The Russians are intensively training and are preparing for the ‘Zapad 25’ exercises this September. Poland is also conducting its own defensive drills.”
After Russia’s 2021 invasion of Ukraine, it became clear that its military drills were not just simulations, but precursors to real aggression. However, NATO is well-prepared, with coordinated defense systems and contingency plans.
Recent geopolitical developments have awakened Europe to the reality of the threat, and preparedness has significantly improved, thanks in part to initiatives launched during President Donald Trump’s tenure, which pushed member states to raise defense spending.
Currently, 22 out of 32 NATO members meet the target of 2% of GDP allocated to defense, with some exceeding 3%. Poland leads the way at 4.7% of GDP spent on defense.
“It’s important that Europe doesn’t duplicate efforts, but works synergistically within the EU and NATO,” Bieniek emphasized.
New initiatives include €150 billion earmarked for military-industrial development and equipment purchases, with a strong focus on dual-use technologies that serve both civilian and military purposes. The ultimate goal is to ensure Europe’s self-defense capabilities and foster an effective common strategy against growing threats.
Source: ManagerPlus.pl
