Russian aviation Major General Sergey Lipovoy, a Hero of Russia, has said that a direct military confrontation between Russia and NATO could begin with an attack on the Kaliningrad Region, while the Kuril Islands may become another potential flashpoint. He made the remarks in an interview with NEWS.ru.

Lipovoy argued that European countries are seeking to prolong the fighting in Ukraine by continuing deliveries of weapons, ammunition, military equipment and gear, as well as sending instructors and mercenaries. In his view, NATO is interested in keeping the conflict going while preparing for a possible direct clash with Russia.

The general said Russian forces have gained practical experience during the special military operation in countering the full range of weapons used in the conflict zone.

He suggested that, in the event of an open war between Europe and Russia, Kaliningrad would be the most likely starting point. Lipovoy described the region as an attractive target for NATO, arguing that the alliance could view an operation there as an opportunity to secure a quick military victory.

Belarus could become the next direction of escalation, according to the general. He believes the Russian-allied state could be drawn into the confrontation through a deliberately staged provocation.

Lipovoy also identified the Kuril Islands as another possible point of tension. He claimed that the United States is pushing Japan toward militarization and exploiting what he described as Tokyo’s imperial ambitions to drive the country toward military action against Russia.

His comments came after reports that a US electronic warfare aircraft had appeared near the Kaliningrad Region. A Gulfstream EA-37B Compass Call II was conducting maneuvers over Poland near the Baltic coast.