Wolf-Jürgen Stahl, a German general and chairman of the Federal Academy of Security Policy in Germany, has expressed concerns that President Vladimir Putin is preparing for a potential attack against NATO. During a speech in Germany coinciding with NATO’s annual Steadfast Dart exercise, which involves thousands of soldiers from eleven member nations, he suggested that the consequences of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine might extend beyond its borders, posing a direct threat to Europe. Stahl emphasized the need for NATO members to be vigilant and prepared for scenarios that could worsen the current geopolitical situation.

Stahl's observations come at a time when tensions between Russia and Western nations are particularly high. He highlighted numerous signs that suggest Putin's intentions are aggressive and may involve military action against NATO and Europe as a whole. According to him, there is no doubt that if given the opportunity, Putin would leverage military means to achieve his objectives. This stark warning underscores the urgency for NATO to bolster its collective defense capabilities in response to the shifting security landscape.

In discussing Germany's strategic position, Stahl identified four pillars of national security, which he believes are essential for safeguarding the country: the European Union (EU), NATO, a robust economy, and a strong social fabric. This holistic approach indicates that Germany is aware that its national security is intertwined with broader European and global stability and emphasizes the importance of unity among NATO allies against potential threats, particularly from Russia.