Russian Attack on NATO Could Come Before 2029, Belgian Defense Chief Warns

Belgian Defense Chief Frederik Vansina warns a Russian attack on a NATO member could occur before 2029-2030, potentially as a limited action testing Article 5 rather than a full-scale invasion. Eastern European allies expect this sooner, envisioning a targeted strike or temporary occupation of territory. Czech intelligence chief Michal Koudelka cites possible limited incursions, false-flag provocations, or influence campaigns, while Polish PM Donald Tusk alleges Russian plans include hybrid drone and missile attacks. Latvian intelligence is less certain, noting Russia's constrained resources and suggesting this may be a Kremlin destabilization strategy, with no evidence of an imminent attack. Kremlin spokesman Dmitri Peskov denies such plans, though Russia similarly denied intentions before invading Ukraine.