Media reports: Putin could test NATO's resolve, according to U.S. reports

Russian President Vladimir Putin might test NATO's resolve through limited attacks on a member state, according to U.S. intelligence reports cited by U.S. media outlets.

The Wall Street Journal and CNN, referencing U.S. intelligence assessments shared by officials and sources familiar with the reports, indicated that potential scenarios range from cyberattacks to small-scale incursions into NATO territory. While the U.S. previously believed Putin would avoid provoking NATO during the ongoing war in Ukraine, this assessment has reportedly changed this year.

According to The Wall Street Journal, the objective of any potential attack by Putin on a NATO country amidst the Ukraine conflict would be to sow division within the alliance. Another scenario mentioned involves deploying soldiers in unmarked uniforms to occupy territories.

The intelligence reports suggest that while the likelihood of an extreme scenario, such as an incursion into NATO's eastern flank, is currently low, it is increasing over time. The estimated timeframe for any possible attacks spans from this autumn through 2029. This article is being updated.