Starmer issues alarming assessment: 'Russia could attack NATO within four years'

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer issued an alarming assessment, stating that Russia could attack a NATO member within four years, based on Western intelligence evaluations. He made these remarks while promising that his government would soon publish a defense investment plan that has been significantly delayed.

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In my 35-year career, this is the most dangerous period I have experienced.

"Our intelligence assessment, as well as the assessment of other countries in NATO, is that a Russian attack on NATO could occur as early as 2030," Starmer told reporters during a visit to a drone manufacturer in southwest England. He stressed the "urgency and priority" his government is giving to this issue. This timeline aligns with previous warnings from NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, who in December cautioned that Russia might be prepared to use military force against NATO within five years.

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And because of that, it is important that we, together with our allies, strengthen the capabilities and readiness of our armed forces to deter adversaries from doing something rash.

Starmer pledged to increase defense spending to 2.5% of GDP starting next year, with a further commitment to reach 3% in the next parliamentary term. The 10-year defense investment plan, intended to follow a review of British defense capabilities, was initially expected at the end of last year but faced delays, reportedly due to disagreements between the Treasury and other departments over costs. Starmer assured that the plan would be "fully funded" and would be released before the NATO summit in Turkey on July 7.

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Our intelligence assessment, as well as the assessment of other countries in NATO, is that a Russian attack on NATO could occur as early as 2030.

Earlier on Friday, senior British military officials underscored the nation's need to bolster its defenses in response to the threats posed by Russia. Air Marshal Richard Knighton, Chief of the UK Defence Staff, described the current situation as the "most dangerous period" in his 35-year career. He emphasized the critical importance of strengthening the armed forces' capabilities and readiness, in cooperation with allies, to deter potential adversaries from making "rash" decisions.

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So, you understand therefore the urgency and priority that we are currently attaching to this issue.