NATO braces for possible decades-long standoff with Russia, warns Stoltenberg

Voicing his concerns, Stoltenberg said: There are no assurances that if Putin prevails in Ukraine, he won't target other nations. The head of NATO emphasized the crucial importance of supporting Ukraine and bolstering the Alliance's defensive capabilities in safeguarding against potential Russian threats.

- "Deterrence is effective only when it's credible" - he added, emphasizing the need for a robust and resolute stance.

Stoltenberg highlighted the urgency for the NATO countries' arms industry to accelerate development. He urged member states to step up the manufacturing of weapons and ammunition to bolster not only Ukraine's defenses but also their own stockpiles.

- "This implies a shift from leisurely production in peacetime to rapid manufacturing under conflict conditions" - Stoltenberg remarked, emphasizing how critical it is to sync production speed with the evolving international situation.

The Secretary General of NATO also noted that Russia's president, Vladimir Putin, is already adapting his country's economy for the likelihood of a protracted war.

- "That's why we must enhance our security measures" - added Stoltenberg, underlining that NATO must take necessary steps to protect its member states against potential adversities.