Putin's shadow over Europe: is there a great war in 2026?

Putin's shadow over Europe: is there a great war in 2026?

Wien, Österreich - The geopolitical situation in Europe is dramatic. According to the military expert Gustav Gressel, who is both in the href = "https://www.tagesschau.de/ausland/europa/gressel-interview-ukraine-100.html"> Tagesschau to speak, Russia could prepare a serious attack on a European country in the next few years. Gressel sees American military aid for Ukraine, which may be canceled, as well as the US sanctions against Russia, which could stop, which would significantly support Russia in the armaments area. His dark forecast: A great war for Europe could begin in 2026.

Gressel argues that the US withdrawal under President Trump weakens the military support of Ukraine. This could lead to the fact that Ukraine only holds for six to twelve months without significant help. The Russian Air Force is probably becoming more active, and the Ukrainian military could experience massive problems with the maintenance of its fighter planes and artillery ammunition. In this context, Russia will inevitably try to "create facts", which is far away from a fast peace. "Why should Putin want a ceasefire?" Asks Gressel, who also questions the importance of NATO's article 5 support obligation if the US aid falls away.

urgent need for action for Europe

Gressel calls for Europe to a radical rethink in foreign and defense policy. Regardless of the United States, Europe must prepare to support Ukraine independently. Special pressure on the United States will be necessary to remind you of previous obligations, such as the delivery of the Starlink satellite system. Europe must not be one of the "weaker", because Trump reacts primarily to strength and pressure. The forecast for the European security situation is characterized by worrying optimism: "We have to switch to defending Europe without the United States," concludes Gressel.