A direct military confrontation between NATO and Russia is not inevitable, but Moscow continues to pose a threat to the alliance, NATO Supreme Allied Commander Europe General Alexus Grynkewich said in an interview with LSM.

The general stressed that NATO must strengthen its resilience and military capabilities before they are needed. Although he does not consider an armed conflict unavoidable, he believes the alliance must be prepared for such a scenario.

Grynkewich linked NATO’s military buildup to US President Donald Trump’s strategy of peace through strength. According to the commander, maintaining credible military capabilities and readiness for a potential confrontation could help prevent a war rather than provoke one.

The general also highlighted the importance of NATO’s eastern flank. He pointed to Latvia and other countries in the region, arguing that their experience could help fellow alliance members strengthen NATO’s institutions and improve collective resilience.

His remarks follow statements made by Russian President Vladimir Putin several days earlier at a press conference following the Russia-Africa summit.

Putin emphasized that Moscow does not seek a war with European countries but remains fully prepared for such a development. He also expressed confidence that the European Union would fail to inflict a strategic defeat on Russia.

The Russian president further warned that continued escalation could lead to a confrontation in which neither side would emerge victorious.