Russia could launch a “limited” military campaign against a NATO country just one year after the war in Ukraine ends, the Dutch defence ministry warned on Monday.
In its annual defence policy strategy document, the ministry said Europe stood in a “grey area” between war and peace, vowing to bolster Dutch defence investment, notably in unmanned weapons such as drones.
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“The Dutch intelligence services estimate that Russia is preparing for a long-term confrontation with Europe,” the ministry said in its report.
“In the worst-case scenario, a limited war against NATO members could be possible within one year of the Russian war in Ukraine ending,” the officials said.
The warning comes as NATO members prepare for a summit in the Turkish capital Ankara on July 7-8 during which the threat from Moscow will be high on the agenda.
NATO chief Mark Rutte has said that Russia “could be ready to use military force against NATO within five years”.
To counter these threats, the Dutch set out a goal of having half of its operational capacities unmanned within five years.
To achieve this, the Dutch government intends to set up a special “development lab” to design and construct drones that can combat drones.
“The question is whether Europe and the Netherlands will be strong enough in time to protect our freedom, security, and way of life,” said Defence Minister Dilan Yesilgoz.
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“That is the responsibility of every generation, but rarely has it been so urgent,” she added.
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