Russia is preparing for a protracted war, according to NATO’s secretary general.
Stoltenberg argues that NATO itself does not want war, but that instead of promoting peace and improved relations, the US-led military alliance must now rearm and “prepare for a confrontation that could last decades”.
– With Russia’s entire economy geared toward war, we must also do more for our security, he argues in an interview with Die Welt.
– NATO is not looking for a war with Russia… But we have to prepare for a confrontation that could last for decades, the Secretary General continues, urging member states to quickly build up their defense industries.
Stoltenberg makes no mention of efforts to make peace with Russia or work for better relations and de-escalation, instead warning that “Russian aggression” could spread to other countries if Ukraine loses the war.
Good news for the arms industry
– Deterrence only works if it is credible, the NATO chief says, adding that NATO’s best strategy is to continue supplying arms to Ukraine and investing heavily in its own defense industry.
– We need to rebuild and expand our industrial base more quickly so that we can increase deliveries to Ukraine and replenish our own stocks. This means moving from slow production in peacetime to the fast production needed in times of conflict.
Stoltenberg also calls for more and faster orders to arms manufacturers, pointing out that “in market economies you need signed contracts to increase production”.
