Europe on edge: Shirreff warns of Russian threat to continent
Former NATO deputy commander Sir Richard Shirreff warns of possible consequences from lacking support for Ukraine and the Baltic countries. In his view, Russia may direct its actions toward other states, posing a threat of armed conflict in Europe.
Sir Richard Shirreff, former NATO deputy commander in Europe, presents a troubling vision of the future. He believes a bleak scenario may occur if the United Kingdom and other countries do not support Ukraine and the Baltic states. According to Shirreff, a lack of support could escalate Russian actions, endangering the security of not only Ukraine or Russia's other neighbors but the entire continent. Shirreff emphasizes that former U.S. President Donald Trump's policies weakened NATO, which could have serious consequences.
Were the US to withdraw from NATO, the remaining countries of which Britain is a member would suddenly be without US support, warned Shirreff, quoted by the "Mirror."
According to the military officer, after Ukraine, Russia may target its actions toward Georgia, Moldova, and Romania, and then the Baltic countries. Shirreff noted that such a scenario could lead to a direct armed conflict between European countries and Russia.
It looks like the deportation of children, rape of women and the massacre of civilians. That's what happens when Russia attacks. First will be the missiles, then the works, Shirreff stated.
Strengthening Europe's defense
The former NATO commander emphasizes that Europe must continue arming Ukraine and consider implementing mandatory military service. I fear for our future if Europe does not take action, warned the military officer.
Reactions to a potential U.S. withdrawal from NATO
Former British Defense Secretary Ben Wallace said that the USA's withdrawal from NATO would be "terrifying," but it would not mean the end of the world.
We have the will in Europe and the money, if we choose to, to fix our own security and defence, said Wallace, quoted by the "Mirror."
Diplomatic efforts for peace will continue. Meanwhile, former President Trump suggested that Kyiv is more challenging to negotiate with than the Kremlin and wanted to end the war before committing to security guarantees.
