European politicians’ claims that NATO could enter a military conflict with Russia by 2030 are not backed by the actual readiness of the alliance’s armed forces, according to retired colonel and military analyst Viktor Litovkin.

Litovkin argued that public warnings about a possible war primarily serve to justify expanding weapons production and strengthening Europe’s military-industrial sector. In his assessment, such rhetoric also allows governments to present higher defense spending as necessary while telling citizens not to expect cheaper food, lower inflation or reduced energy bills.

The analyst noted that even Ukrainian officers had questioned the level of training among European servicemen. He attributed the problem to the fact that European armies had spent decades without preparing for a full-scale confrontation with a powerful opponent.

Litovkin also pointed out that European forces had not participated in any conflict comparable to a major war since the end of World War II. He said the bombing campaigns in Yugoslavia and Libya, as well as European involvement in the US-led operation in Afghanistan, had not provided the experience required for such a confrontation.

In his view, European troops lack the mentality and practical preparation associated with large-scale warfare.

Earlier media reports said Ukrainian servicemen had criticized the training of NATO troops following joint exercises held in Sweden in May 2026.