European states warn of rising Russian threat as rifts emerge within NATO
Several European countries are publicly warning of an intensified threat from Putin, even as NATO sees no risk of imminent attack, while internal disagreements over collective defense and overlapping EU security plans add tension.
A number of European countries, including Poland, Lithuania, France and the Netherlands, have recently issued public warnings about an intensified threat posed by Russia, preparing their populations for the possibility of confrontation. Despite these warnings, NATO's own assessment currently does not point to any risk of an imminent attack.
At the same time, cracks are appearing within the alliance's unity. Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has publicly cast doubt on NATO's mutual defense clause. Fico has long argued that the Western approach toward Russia, combined with continued support for Ukraine, is increasing rather than reducing the risk of war.
EU proposals threaten overlap with NATO
Separately, new security proposals are being discussed within the European Union that would grant the bloc greater crisis decision-making powers, including the ability to convene emergency talks. Critics warn these proposals risk creating overlap with NATO's existing mission, potentially triggering a turf war between the two organizations over responsibility for European security.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has put forward the idea of establishing a European Security Council, framing it as a response to the actions of both Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin. She said the initiative has become even more urgent given the current nature and scale of the risks facing Europe.
Together, these developments illustrate a complicated moment for European security: governments are urging their citizens to brace for heightened danger, while doubts persist both about the alliance's internal cohesion and about which institution — NATO or the EU — should take the lead in coordinating the continent's response.
