Belgian defense chief warns Russia could strike NATO before 2030
Belgian Defense Chief Frederik Vansina warns that a Russian attack on a NATO country could occur before 2029-2030, potentially as a limited action to test Article 5 rather than a large-scale invasion. Vansina cites Eastern allies' assessments suggesting a possible one-off strike or temporary occupation of territory along the eastern border. Czech intelligence chief Michal Koudelka echoed concerns about limited incursions, false-flag provocations, or major influence campaigns, while Polish PM Donald Tusk mentioned hybrid drone and missile attacks. Latvian intelligence is less certain, noting no evidence of an imminent attack and suggesting Russia may be using destabilization tactics to spread fear. Kremlin spokesman Dmitri Peskov denies any threat, though Russia similarly denied plans before invading Ukraine.