NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated that the Alliance has “all options for responding” to hybrid attacks by Russia, which, he said, “are having an impact.” He made these remarks during a press conference in Lithuania on September 29, according to The Guardian.
Rutte emphasized that NATO is prepared for various forms of response, which may be either visible or invisible. He also noted that the allies are actively working to counter the Russian threat, and that it is important to publicly declare Russia’s involvement in various incidents, as Estonia has done.
The Secretary General stressed the need to remain calm and continue investing in defense, as Russia is not in the best position. “We must ensure that we will be even stronger in two, three, or five years,” Rutte said.
He also stressed that allies must continue to support Ukraine, as this is the best response to Russia’s actions in the “gray zone.” Rutte noted that Russia is trying to weaken the West’s resolve, but is failing to do so.
High-ranking NATO officials are focusing on publicly exposing Russian tactics to prevent Moscow from succeeding in manipulating public opinion regarding aid to Ukraine. This is particularly important ahead of the 2027 elections in France, Italy, Poland, and Spain.
See also:
- Attacks on Ukraine’s Civilian Infrastructure: Threats, Consequences, and Challenges for the Economy
- Strikes by the Ukrainian Armed Forces on Russia Could Help Resume Peace Talks — U.S. Ambassador
- How international sanctions could change the course of the war: Zelenskyy’s appeal to the U.S. and new challenges for Ukraine
