German Commander Warns Russia May Attack NATO by 2029

Carsten Breuer, the German Inspector General of the Bundeswehr, has warned that Russia could be prepared to militarily test NATO alliances by 2029. In an interview with Süddeutsche Zeitung, Breuer cited indicators such as Russian rearmament efforts, personnel structural changes, and broader economic and political developments as evidence pointing to this specific timeline. He emphasized that the primary security threat originates from Moscow, necessitating a German armed force capable of immediate deployment. This assessment aligns with warnings from NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte regarding the growing Russian threat. However, opinions on potential initial targets vary; Estonian security expert Erkki Koort suggests Germany could be a primary target due to the significant political and military impact of such a strike, whereas other analysts anticipate escalation in the Baltic states. In response to these threats, Germany is actively pursuing enhanced defense capabilities, including discussions in Washington about purchasing Tomahawk cruise missiles. Defense Minister Boris Pistorius is scheduled to visit Washington to further advance these acquisition efforts, underscoring Germany's commitment to strengthening its deterrence posture against potential Russian aggression within the next few years.