Within this powerful coalition, there exists a striking imbalance: while some members command vast armies and advanced weaponry, others operate with limited manpower, modest budgets, or even without a standing army at all. 

Within this powerful coalition, there exists a striking imbalance: while some members command vast armies and advanced weaponry, others operate with limited manpower, modest budgets, or even without a standing army at all.&nbsp;

From Slovenia to Iceland: 7 NATO countries with the lowest military strength

U.S. President Donald Trump has stated he is ready to impose major sanctions on Russia only if NATO countries do. Trump claims NATO's Russian oil purchases weaken the alliance’s negotiating power over Moscow.


Russia-Ukraine war: Trump blames Russian oil purchase weakening negotiating power 

Romania scrambled two F-16 fighter jets late on Saturday to monitor the situation after the strikes, the ministry said in statement. The jets “detected a drone in national airspace” and tracked it until “it disappeared from the radar” near the Romanian village of Chilia Veche, it added.


Romania says it detected a drone, scrambled two F-16 to track it

With tanks, jets, and missiles on the move, Russia and Belarus have launched their Zapad-2025 war games, right on NATO’s frontier.

The exercise comes days after Poland claimed Russian drone incursion and scrambled jets in response.

Russia has rejected Poland accusations as a 'myth' but Europe is nervous that their worst fears might be coming true.

As Russia holds a planned joint drill with Belarus, Poland has shuts its borders.

NATO is shoring up defences on eastern flank 

With tanks, jets, and missiles on the move, Russia and Belarus have launched their Zapad-2025 war games, right on NATO’s frontier.
The exercise comes days after Poland claimed Russian drone incursion and scrambled jets in response.
Russia has rejected Poland accusations as 'myth' but Europe is nervous that their worst fears might be coming true.
As Russia holds a planned joint drill with Belarus, Poland has shuts its borders.

Russia-Belarus war games rattle NATO’s eastern flank amid rising tensions

European countries are urgently seeking Ukrainian-made anti-drone systems after Russian kamikaze drones breached Polish airspace on 10 September, according to a report by the Kyiv Independent. A European military diplomat told the outlet that talks on investing in Ukrainian interceptor drones were already underway before the incident, but have since accelerated. “We need to be prepared for war, so it is high time to be learning from Ukraine,” the diplomat said.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-for-today-s-war-and-tomorrow-s-security-ukraine-s-new-flamingo-missile-is-the-gift-that-will-keep-on-giving-1756035953915">‘For today’s war and tomorrow’s security’: Ukraine’s new Flamingo missile is the gift that will keep on giving</a><h2>Inquiries flood Ukrainian firms</h2>Within hours of the attack, Ukrainian defence advisory firm Triada Trade Partners received a wave of inquiries from Poland, Germany, Denmark and the Baltic states. “Russia has shown that they are not scared to attack NATO countries directly. So NATO countries are now seeking a solution,” Bohdan Popov, head of the firm’s analytical department, told the outlet. He said the most sought-after systems were the new interceptor drones revealed three months ago by President Volodymyr Zelensky.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-act-of-war-poland-shoots-down-russian-drones-in-nato-s-first-direct-confrontation-since-ukraine-war-1757476462348">'Act of war': Poland shoots down Russian drones in NATO's first direct confrontation since Ukraine war</a><h2>Why is Europe turning to Ukraine?</h2>Western countries have invested heavily in advanced missile systems designed to counter costly targets such as cruise or ballistic missiles. But these weapons are poorly suited for the low-cost drones Moscow is now deploying.During the 10 September attack, which marked NATO’s first direct engagement with Russia’s forces since the invasion began a group of Polish F-16s, Dutch F-35s, Italian AWACS, NATO tankers and German Patriots was scrambled, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte confirmed.Sidewinder missiles costing around $400,000 each were used to shoot down Russian Gerberas, dummy drones reportedly made of plywood and foam costing only about $10,000. By contrast, Ukraine’s interceptor drones, modified quadcopters carrying explosives, cost roughly $5,000 and are capable of high-speed, high-altitude manoeuvres.<h2>Moscow says peace talks on ‘pause’</h2>Meanwhile, the Kremlin said peace talks with Kyiv were on hold, despite US President Donald Trump’s push to broker a deal. Spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters, “Our negotiators have the opportunity to communicate through channels. But for now, it is probably more accurate to talk about a pause.”He cautioned against “rose-tinted glasses,” saying immediate breakthroughs were unlikely. Russian President Vladimir Putin has dismissed meeting President Zelensky, who insists a summit is essential to break the deadlock.&nbsp;

EU are urgently seeking Ukrainian-made interceptor drones after Russian kamikaze drones breached Polish airspace, prompting fears over NATO security and turning Europe to Ukraine’s cost-effective defences against low-cost aerial threats.

European countries are urgently seeking Ukrainian-made anti-drone systems after Russian kamikaze drones breached Polish airspace on 10 September, according to a report by the Kyiv Independent. A European military diplomat told the outlet that talks on investing in Ukrainian interceptor drones were already underway before the incident, but have since accelerated. “We need to be prepared for war, so it is high time to be learning from Ukraine,” the diplomat said. Also read: ‘For today’s war and tomorrow’s security’: Ukraine’s new Flamingo missile is the gift that will keep on giving Inquiries flood Ukrainian firms Within hours of the attack, Ukrainian defence advisory firm Triada Trade Partners received a wave of inquiries from Poland, Germany, Denmark and the Baltic states. “Russia has shown that they are not scared to attack NATO countries directly. So NATO countries are now seeking a solution,” Bohdan Popov, head of the firm’s analytical department, told the outlet. He said the most sought-after systems were the new interceptor drones revealed three months ago by President Volodymyr Zelensky. Also read: 'Act of war': Poland shoots down Russian drones in NATO's first direct confrontation since Ukraine war Why is Europe turning to Ukraine? Western countries have invested heavily in advanced missile systems designed to counter costly targets such as cruise or ballistic missiles. But these weapons are poorly suited for the low-cost drones Moscow is now deploying. During the 10 September attack, which marked NATO’s first direct engagement with Russia’s forces since the invasion began a group of Polish F-16s, Dutch F-35s, Italian AWACS, NATO tankers and German Patriots was scrambled, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte confirmed. Sidewinder missiles costing around $400,000 each were used to shoot down Russian Gerberas, dummy drones reportedly made of plywood and foam costing only about $10,000. By contrast, Ukraine’s interceptor drones, modified quadcopters carrying explosives, cost roughly $5,000 and are capable of high-speed, high-altitude manoeuvres. Moscow says peace talks on ‘pause’ Meanwhile, the Kremlin said peace talks with Kyiv were on hold, despite US President Donald Trump’s push to broker a deal. Spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters, “Our negotiators have the opportunity to communicate through channels. But for now, it is probably more accurate to talk about a pause.” He cautioned against “rose-tinted glasses,” saying immediate breakthroughs were unlikely. Russian President Vladimir Putin has dismissed meeting President Zelensky, who insists a summit is essential to break the deadlock.

EU are urgently seeking Ukrainian-made interceptor drones after Russian kamikaze drones breached Polish airspace, prompting fears over NATO security and turning Europe to Ukraine’s cost-effective defences against low-cost aerial threats.

'We need to be prepared for war': Europe rushes to buy Ukrainian tech after Russian drone incursion on Poland - Here's why

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk on Wednesday (Sep 10) declared that the NATO member had invoked Article 4 of the Western defence alliance for urgent talks after Russian drones violated its airspace. This comes after Tusk told the parliament that 19 violations of Poland’s airspace were identified overnight, and shot down at least three drones. He added that there were no casualties in the “Russian action.”



Russia vs Poland: Poland Accuses Russia of 'Unprecedented' Drone Strikes, Invokes NATO Article 4

The Kremlin on Thursday dismissed statements by Warsaw and other European countries about the shooting down of Russian drones over NATO. Watch this report for more details!


Poland-Russia tensions: Russia dismisses Western 'rhetoric' about drones in Poland

After an incursion by Russian drones into Polish territory, Russia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a threat to the Nordic country of Finland. In the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs quoted Putin loyalist and Former Prime Minister and President Dmitry Medvedev, who warned Finland about ‘’building a new ‘Mannerheim Line'”- a defensive fortification built against Soviet Russia during World War II.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-warns-citizen-against-joining-russian-army-ukraine-war-1757580229444">'Fraught with danger': India warns citizens against joining Russian army in conflict with Ukraine, Govt. seeks release of recruited nationals</a>&nbsp;This comes just a day after 20 Russian drones crossed into Polish territory, forcing Poland to shut down its airspace. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk called the situation the closest to "armed conflict since the Second World War.”In a post shared along with a long Telegram link, Russia accused Finland of committing “genocide and war crimes” against the Soviet Union and accused it of being “a satellite of Nazi Germany.” It also expressed dissatisfaction with Finland for being part of NATO.Russia warned Finland that a confrontation with Russia would lead to the collapse of Finnish statehood. “Unlike in 1944, no one will go soft on them this time,” Medvedev added. “As the saying goes, ‘sitä saa, mitä tilaa’ – you get what you ask for.”&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-park-charlie-kirk-death-got-a-nut-episode-1757565552231">South Park faces backlash after Charlie Kirk's death, conservatives push to cancel 'Got a Nut' episode</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">📄 Deputy Chairman of Russia&#39;s Security Council <a href="https://twitter.com/MedvedevRussiaE?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MedvedevRussiaE</a>: The Finnish establishment mustn&#39;t forget: confrontation with Russia can lead to collapse of Finnish statehood – this time forever. ❗️Unlike in 1944, no one will go soft on them this time.<a href="https://t.co/pPLmBR5L0P">https://t.co/pPLmBR5L0P</a> <a href="https://t.co/WBvS3HMHac">pic.twitter.com/WBvS3HMHac</a>&mdash; MFA Russia 🇷🇺 (@mfa_russia) <a href="https://twitter.com/mfa_russia/status/1965753604482142641?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 10, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Finland is building a 200 km-long border fence along its eastern border since 2023 to stop migration from Russia. As of May 2025, it had already completed 35 km of a 4.5 m high fence. Finland has previously also faced strong criticism from Russia over the construction. Finland joined NATO in 2023 as Russia started its invasion of Ukraine. The Russia-Finland border is otherwise peaceful. "The main purpose of the fence is to control a large mass of people if they are trying to enter from Russia to Finland," the deputy commander of Southeast Finland Border Guard District, Antti Virta, quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nepal-protests-gen-z-uprising-hami-nepal-funding-1757493439277">Nepal Protests- Is Gen Z uprising backed by shady money?</a>&nbsp;

Just a day after the incursion in Poland, Russia expressed dissatisfaction with Finland about building a fence along its eastern border and threatened that a confrontation with Russia would collapse its statehood. 

After an incursion by Russian drones into Polish territory, Russia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a threat to the Nordic country of Finland. In the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs quoted Putin loyalist and Former Prime Minister and President Dmitry Medvedev, who warned Finland about ‘’building a new ‘Mannerheim Line'”- a defensive fortification built against Soviet Russia during World War II. Also read: 'Fraught with danger': India warns citizens against joining Russian army in conflict with Ukraine, Govt. seeks release of recruited nationals This comes just a day after 20 Russian drones crossed into Polish territory, forcing Poland to shut down its airspace. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk called the situation the closest to "armed conflict since the Second World War.” In a post shared along with a long Telegram link, Russia accused Finland of committing “genocide and war crimes” against the Soviet Union and accused it of being “a satellite of Nazi Germany.” It also expressed dissatisfaction with Finland for being part of NATO. Russia warned Finland that a confrontation with Russia would lead to the collapse of Finnish statehood. “Unlike in 1944, no one will go soft on them this time,” Medvedev added. “As the saying goes, ‘sitä saa, mitä tilaa’ – you get what you ask for.” Also read: South Park faces backlash after Charlie Kirk's death, conservatives push to cancel 'Got a Nut' episode

Just a day after the incursion in Poland, Russia expressed dissatisfaction with Finland about building a fence along its eastern border and threatened that a confrontation with Russia would collapse its statehood.&nbsp;

After incursion in Poland Russia threatens Finland about "building a new ‘Mannerheim Line'”

Poland: European officials reported that multiple Russian drones entered Poland on Wednesday in what was described as a deliberate provocation. NATO responded by scrambling fighter jets to intercept them, marking the first time the alliance faced a potential threat in its airspace.


Russia-Poland tensions: Europe on edge as Moscow tests NAATO defences

In its first response after Poland shot down Russian drones, the Kremlin said that it "prefers not to comment on the matter." Several Russian drones were downed by Poland overnight, with Warsaw accusing Moscow of violating its airspace. Meanwhile, the Russian Army said that it did not target Polish sites in an overnight drone attack on Ukraine. Poland had said that the drones entered its airspace during Russia's strike on Ukraine. Taking an immediate step, Poland has invoked NATO's Article 4, which allows its members to hold urgent talks when faced with a situation that undermines "territorial integrity, political independence or security."&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-russian-drone-incursion-poland-invokes-nato-article-4-what-it-means-1757497877310">After Russian drone incursion, Poland invokes NATO Article 4 – What it means</a>&nbsp;Speaking to the media, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that it is for the Ministry of Defence to respond to the matter. "We prefer not to comment, it is not within our competence, it is the prerogative of the Ministry of Defence," Peskov said. News agency AFP said that there has been no response from the Ministry of Defence or any other Russian official so far. The Russian Army said, "There were no intentions to engage any targets on the territory of Poland. We are ready to hold consultations on this subject with the Polish defence ministry," Russia's defence ministry said in a statement in English, without confirming or denying that its drones had entered Polish airspace.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-act-of-war-poland-shoots-down-russian-drones-in-nato-s-first-direct-confrontation-since-ukraine-war-1757476462348">'Act of war': Poland shoots down Russian drones in NATO's first direct confrontation since Ukraine war</a><h2>What has happened so far?</h2>In what is being termed as Russia's direct engagement with NATO since the beginning of the Russia-Ukraine war in 2022. Polish interior ministry said that a house and a car had been damaged after as many as seven drones and debris from an unknown projectile were also found. “As a result of an attack by the Russian Federation on Ukrainian territory, there was an unprecedented violation of Polish airspace by drone-type objects. This is an act of aggression that posed a real threat to the safety of our citizens," Operational Command of the Polish Armed Forces said in a post on X. Around four airports, including Warsaw’s main Chopin Airport, were temporarily closed after the violation. Defence Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz said Poland’s Territorial Defence Forces had been activated for ground searches to recover fragments of the drones. The Polish Armed Forces also confirmed that weapons were found and operations are underway to locate the downed objects.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-troops-will-stay-in-poland-never-even-thought-of-removing-them-says-trump-1756916331455">US troops will stay in Poland, never even thought of removing them, says Trump</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Poland shot down Russian drones that violated its airspace during a strike on Ukraine, calling it an act of aggression. In response, Poland invoked NATO's Article 4. Russia denied targeting Poland and offered talks. Airports were closed, damage reported, and Polish forces are investigating.

In its first response after Poland shot down Russian drones, the Kremlin said that it "prefers not to comment on the matter." Several Russian drones were downed by Poland overnight, with Warsaw accusing Moscow of violating its airspace. Meanwhile, the Russian Army said that it did not target Polish sites in an overnight drone attack on Ukraine. Poland had said that the drones entered its airspace during Russia's strike on Ukraine. Taking an immediate step, Poland has invoked NATO's Article 4, which allows its members to hold urgent talks when faced with a situation that undermines "territorial integrity, political independence or security." Read More | After Russian drone incursion, Poland invokes NATO Article 4 – What it means Speaking to the media, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that it is for the Ministry of Defence to respond to the matter. "We prefer not to comment, it is not within our competence, it is the prerogative of the Ministry of Defence," Peskov said. News agency AFP said that there has been no response from the Ministry of Defence or any other Russian official so far. The Russian Army said, "There were no intentions to engage any targets on the territory of Poland. We are ready to hold consultations on this subject with the Polish defence ministry," Russia's defence ministry said in a statement in English, without confirming or denying that its drones had entered Polish airspace. Read More | 'Act of war': Poland shoots down Russian drones in NATO's first direct confrontation since Ukraine war What has happened so far? In what is being termed as Russia's direct engagement with NATO since the beginning of the Russia-Ukraine war in 2022. Polish interior ministry said that a house and a car had been damaged after as many as seven drones and debris from an unknown projectile were also found. “As a result of an attack by the Russian Federation on Ukrainian territory, there was an unprecedented violation of Polish airspace by drone-type objects. This is an act of aggression that posed a real threat to the safety of our citizens," Operational Command of the Polish Armed Forces said in a post on X. Around four airports, including Warsaw’s main Chopin Airport, were temporarily closed after the violation. Defence Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz said Poland’s Territorial Defence Forces had been activated for ground searches to recover fragments of the drones. The Polish Armed Forces also confirmed that weapons were found and operations are underway to locate the downed objects. Read More | US troops will stay in Poland, never even thought of removing them, says Trump

Poland shot down Russian drones that violated its airspace during a strike on Ukraine, calling it an act of aggression. In response, Poland invoked NATO's Article 4. Russia denied targeting Poland and offered talks. Airports were closed, damage reported, and Polish forces are investigating.

Russia breaks silence on Poland drone incursion, Kremlin says 'defence ministry will...'

After the Russian drone incursion in Polish airspace, NATO chief Mark Rutte on Wednesday (Sep 10) slammed Moscow’s “reckless behaviour”. It also hailed the alliance’s “very successful reaction” to counter the violation. The European Union and NATO members, including the US, UK, Germany, and France, have also condemned the overnight drone incursion by Russia. Meanwhile, Russia has said that it did not target Polish sites.“A full assessment is ongoing. But of course, whether it was intentional or not, it is absolutely reckless, it is absolutely dangerous,” alliance chief Mark Rutte said following the emergency meeting of the NATO members on Wednesday.He said that NATO’s “air defences were activated and successfully assured the defence of NATO territory, as they are designed to do.”He further warned Putin to end the war in Ukraine and stop killing civilians and infrastructure. “To Putin, I mean, my message is clear: stop the war in Ukraine, stop the escalating war, which he is now basically mounting on innocent civilians and civilian infrastructure,” he said. “Stop violating allied airspace, and know that we stand ready, that we are vigilant, and that we will defend every inch of NATO territory.”EU chief Ursula von der Leyen condemned the Russian drone incrusion, asserting its independence in a “hostile” world.&nbsp;“Battle lines for a new world order based on power are being drawn right now,” she said. “So, yes, Europe must fight. For its place in a world in which many major powers are either ambivalent or openly hostile to Europe. This must be Europe's independence moment.”“Just today, we have seen a reckless and unprecedented violation of Poland and Europe's airspace by more than 10 Russian Shahed drones,” von der Leyen said. “Europe will defend every inch of its territory.”<h2>World leaders react</h2>Condemning the Russian violation of Polish airspace, Germany on Wednesday said that Moscow was “testing” Ukraine’s allies. Calling it a “very serious” incident, German spokesman Sebastian Hille said that “there is absolutely no reason to believe that this was a course correction error or anything of the sort” as the drones “did not have to fly this route to reach Ukraine”. Germany’s foreign minister said that “we need to analyse where we are and what Russia's intentions were,” suggestive of confusion or lack of consensus among NATO members on how to deal with Russia.The US ambassador to NATO said that Washington stands by its allies following the Russian drone incursion in Poland. “We stand by our NATO Allies in the face of these airspace violations and will defend every inch of NATO territory,” the US envoy to the alliance, Matthew Whitaker, wrote on X.UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the incident “extremely reckless”, adding that the UK stands firm in its support for Ukraine. British defence minister John Healey said that the incursion “took this aggression to a new level of hostility”, as he held talks in London with defence officials from Poland, France, Italy and Germany.French President Emmanuel Macron said that the Russian violation was “simply unacceptable” and urged Moscow to stop its “reckless behaviour.”“The incursion of Russian drones into Polish airspace during a Russian attack on Ukraine is simply unacceptable,” Macron said on X. “I call on Russia to put an end to this reckless behaviour.”

The European Union and NATO members, including the US, UK, Germany, and France, have also condemned the overnight drone incursion by Russia. Meanwhile, Russia has said that it did not target Polish sites.

After the Russian drone incursion in Polish airspace, NATO chief Mark Rutte on Wednesday (Sep 10) slammed Moscow’s “reckless behaviour”. It also hailed the alliance’s “very successful reaction” to counter the violation. The European Union and NATO members, including the US, UK, Germany, and France, have also condemned the overnight drone incursion by Russia. Meanwhile, Russia has said that it did not target Polish sites. “A full assessment is ongoing. But of course, whether it was intentional or not, it is absolutely reckless, it is absolutely dangerous,” alliance chief Mark Rutte said following the emergency meeting of the NATO members on Wednesday. He said that NATO’s “air defences were activated and successfully assured the defence of NATO territory, as they are designed to do.” He further warned Putin to end the war in Ukraine and stop killing civilians and infrastructure. “To Putin, I mean, my message is clear: stop the war in Ukraine, stop the escalating war, which he is now basically mounting on innocent civilians and civilian infrastructure,” he said. “Stop violating allied airspace, and know that we stand ready, that we are vigilant, and that we will defend every inch of NATO territory.” EU chief Ursula von der Leyen condemned the Russian drone incrusion, asserting its independence in a “hostile” world. “Battle lines for a new world order based on power are being drawn right now,” she said. “So, yes, Europe must fight. For its place in a world in which many major powers are either ambivalent or openly hostile to Europe. This must be Europe's independence moment.” “Just today, we have seen a reckless and unprecedented violation of Poland and Europe's airspace by more than 10 Russian Shahed drones,” von der Leyen said. “Europe will defend every inch of its territory.” World leaders react Condemning the Russian violation of Polish airspace, Germany on Wednesday said that Moscow was “testing” Ukraine’s allies. Calling it a “very serious” incident, German spokesman Sebastian Hille said that “there is absolutely no reason to believe that this was a course correction error or anything of the sort” as the drones “did not have to fly this route to reach Ukraine”. Germany’s foreign minister said that “we need to analyse where we are and what Russia's intentions were,” suggestive of confusion or lack of consensus among NATO members on how to deal with Russia. The US ambassador to NATO said that Washington stands by its allies following the Russian drone incursion in Poland. “We stand by our NATO Allies in the face of these airspace violations and will defend every inch of NATO territory,” the US envoy to the alliance, Matthew Whitaker, wrote on X. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the incident “extremely reckless”, adding that the UK stands firm in its support for Ukraine. British defence minister John Healey said that the incursion “took this aggression to a new level of hostility”, as he held talks in London with defence officials from Poland, France, Italy and Germany. French President Emmanuel Macron said that the Russian violation was “simply unacceptable” and urged Moscow to stop its “reckless behaviour.” “The incursion of Russian drones into Polish airspace during a Russian attack on Ukraine is simply unacceptable,” Macron said on X. “I call on Russia to put an end to this reckless behaviour.”

The European Union and NATO members, including the US, UK, Germany, and France, have also condemned the overnight drone incursion by Russia. Meanwhile, Russia has said that it did not target Polish sites.

‘Europe will defend every inch of its territory’: NATO chief, world leaders slam Russia’s ‘reckless’ drone incursion in Poland

Poland has summoned Russia’s top diplomat in Warsaw after claiming that several Russian drones crossed into its airspace overnight. Andrei Ordash, Moscow’s acting envoy in Poland, confirmed he was called to the foreign ministry at midday but said Warsaw had not yet presented evidence linking the drones to Russia.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-captured-burned-and-sinked-us-coast-guard-seizes-13-000-pounds-of-cocaine-from-drug-boat-and-set-it-ablaze-watch-1757491942574">'Captured, burned, and sunk': US Coast Guard seizes 13,000 pounds of cocaine from ‘drug boat’ and set it ablaze | WATCH</a><h2>Tusk says Poland invoked NATO talks</h2>Prime Minister Donald Tusk told parliament that Poland had recorded 19 airspace violations and shot down at least three drones during the night. He added that no one had been injured in what he described as a “Russian action”. “The allied consultations I am referring to have now taken the form of a formal request to invoke Article 4 of the North Atlantic Treaty,” Tusk said.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-act-of-war-poland-shoots-down-russian-drones-in-nato-s-first-direct-confrontation-since-ukraine-war-1757476462348">'Act of war': Poland shoots down Russian drones in NATO's first direct confrontation since Ukraine war</a><h2>NATO holds urgent consultations</h2>The North Atlantic Council, NATO’s main political body, gathered for its regular Wednesday session. Diplomats said the allies agreed the meeting would be held under Article 4, which allows any member to request urgent talks if it believes its security or territory is under threat. This marks the eighth time Article 4 has been invoked since NATO’s creation in 1949, and the third linked to Russia’s actions in Ukraine.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-share-the-pain-together-trump-tells-eu-to-slap-100-tariffs-on-india-china-to-choke-russia-s-oil-lifeline-1757472246909">'Share the pain together': Trump tells EU to slap 100% tariffs on India, China to choke Russia’s oil lifeline</a><h2>NATO’s defence commitment</h2>While Article 4 provides a forum for consultations, NATO’s collective defence rests on Article 5. That clause requires all allies to respond if one member is attacked. Article 5 has only ever been triggered once, following the 11 September 2001 attacks in the United States.

Poland summoned Russia’s envoy after claiming multiple drone airspace breaches overnight. PM Tusk confirmed 19 violations, three drones downed, and no injuries. Poland has formally requested NATO talks under Article 4.

Poland has summoned Russia’s top diplomat in Warsaw after claiming that several Russian drones crossed into its airspace overnight. Andrei Ordash, Moscow’s acting envoy in Poland, confirmed he was called to the foreign ministry at midday but said Warsaw had not yet presented evidence linking the drones to Russia. Also read: 'Captured, burned, and sunk': US Coast Guard seizes 13,000 pounds of cocaine from ‘drug boat’ and set it ablaze | WATCH Tusk says Poland invoked NATO talks Prime Minister Donald Tusk told parliament that Poland had recorded 19 airspace violations and shot down at least three drones during the night. He added that no one had been injured in what he described as a “Russian action”. “The allied consultations I am referring to have now taken the form of a formal request to invoke Article 4 of the North Atlantic Treaty,” Tusk said. Also read: 'Act of war': Poland shoots down Russian drones in NATO's first direct confrontation since Ukraine war NATO holds urgent consultations The North Atlantic Council, NATO’s main political body, gathered for its regular Wednesday session. Diplomats said the allies agreed the meeting would be held under Article 4, which allows any member to request urgent talks if it believes its security or territory is under threat. This marks the eighth time Article 4 has been invoked since NATO’s creation in 1949, and the third linked to Russia’s actions in Ukraine. Also read: 'Share the pain together': Trump tells EU to slap 100% tariffs on India, China to choke Russia’s oil lifeline NATO’s defence commitment While Article 4 provides a forum for consultations, NATO’s collective defence rests on Article 5. That clause requires all allies to respond if one member is attacked. Article 5 has only ever been triggered once, following the 11 September 2001 attacks in the United States.

Poland summoned Russia’s envoy after claiming multiple drone airspace breaches overnight. PM Tusk confirmed 19 violations, three drones downed, and no injuries. Poland has formally requested NATO talks under Article 4.

Another conflict brewing in Europe? Poland summons Russian envoy; invokes Article 4 of NATO after drone breach sparks NATO talks

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk on Wednesday (Sep 10) declared that the NATO member had invoked Article 4 of the Western defence alliance for urgent talks after Russian drones violated its airspace. This comes after Tusk told the parliament that 19 violations of Poland’s airspace were identified overnight, and shot down at least three drones. He added that there were no casualties in the “Russian action.”Polish interior ministry said that a house and a car had been damaged in the overnight violation of the country’s airspace by Russia. It added that seven drones and debris from unknown projectile were also found.“We have found seven drones and projectile debris... of unknown origin,” interior ministry spokeswoman Karolina Galecka told reporters.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-act-of-war-poland-shoots-down-russian-drones-in-nato-s-first-direct-confrontation-since-ukraine-war-1757476462348">'Act of war': Poland shoots down Russian drones in NATO's first direct confrontation since Ukraine war</a>“The allied consultations I am referring to have now taken the form of a formal request to invoke Article 4 of the North Atlantic Treaty,” Tusk said.The North Atlantic Council, NATO’s main political decision-making body, held its regular weekly meeting on Wednesday morning. However, the allies decided that the meeting would be conducted under Article 4 of the alliance treaty, according to diplomats.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/another-conflict-brewing-in-europe-poland-summons-russian-envoy-invokes-article-4-of-nato-after-drone-breach-sparks-nato-talks-1757500075149">Another conflict brewing in Europe? Poland summons Russian envoy; invokes Article 4 of NATO after drone breach sparks NATO talks</a><h2>What is Article 4 of NATO?</h2>Under Article 4, any NATO member can call urgent talks when it feels that its “territorial integrity, political independence or security” are threatened. It is the eighth time that this article has been invoked by Poland since the alliance was formed in 1949, after World War II.Wednesday’s talks mark the third time Article 4 has been invoked over Russia’s incursions since Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine.According to Article 5 of the NATO alliance, if one member is attacked, the other member nations come to its defence as part of its collective security. This article has only been invoked once in the entire history of the alliance following the September 11, 2001, attacks in the United States. Watch | Breaking: Poland: Drones That Violated Airspace Shot Down, Efforts On To Locate Crash Sites&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-poland-drones-that-violated-airspace-shot-down-efforts-on-to-locate-crash-sites-1757478914507/embed

Under Article 4, any NATO member can call urgent talks when it feels that its “territorial integrity, political independence or security” are threatened.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk on Wednesday (Sep 10) declared that the NATO member had invoked Article 4 of the Western defence alliance for urgent talks after Russian drones violated its airspace. This comes after Tusk told the parliament that 19 violations of Poland’s airspace were identified overnight, and shot down at least three drones. He added that there were no casualties in the “Russian action.” Polish interior ministry said that a house and a car had been damaged in the overnight violation of the country’s airspace by Russia. It added that seven drones and debris from unknown projectile were also found. “We have found seven drones and projectile debris... of unknown origin,” interior ministry spokeswoman Karolina Galecka told reporters. Also read | 'Act of war': Poland shoots down Russian drones in NATO's first direct confrontation since Ukraine war “The allied consultations I am referring to have now taken the form of a formal request to invoke Article 4 of the North Atlantic Treaty,” Tusk said. The North Atlantic Council, NATO’s main political decision-making body, held its regular weekly meeting on Wednesday morning. However, the allies decided that the meeting would be conducted under Article 4 of the alliance treaty, according to diplomats. Also read | Another conflict brewing in Europe? Poland summons Russian envoy; invokes Article 4 of NATO after drone breach sparks NATO talks What is Article 4 of NATO? Under Article 4, any NATO member can call urgent talks when it feels that its “territorial integrity, political independence or security” are threatened. It is the eighth time that this article has been invoked by Poland since the alliance was formed in 1949, after World War II. Wednesday’s talks mark the third time Article 4 has been invoked over Russia’s incursions since Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine. According to Article 5 of the NATO alliance, if one member is attacked, the other member nations come to its defence as part of its collective security. This article has only been invoked once in the entire history of the alliance following the September 11, 2001, attacks in the United States. Watch | Breaking: Poland: Drones That Violated Airspace Shot Down, Efforts On To Locate Crash Sites https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-poland-drones-that-violated-airspace-shot-down-efforts-on-to-locate-crash-sites-1757478914507/embed

Under Article 4, any NATO member can call urgent talks when it feels that its “territorial integrity, political independence or security” are threatened.

After Russian drone incursion, Poland invokes NATO Article 4 – What it means

Poland confirmed it shot down drones that repeatedly entered its airspace amid Russia’s strike on Ukraine. The Polish command confirmed early Wednesday that drones repeatedly violated its airspace amid Russia’s strikes on Ukraine.

NATO on high alert: Poland takes out Russian drones: Red line crossed? 

U.S. President Donald Trump struck a combative tone in a call with European leaders and Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelensky, demanding Europe stop buying Russian oil and increase pressure on China.
European leaders, led by French President Emmanuel Macron, are debating security guarantees for Kyiv as Brussels works to cut energy ties with Moscow.

Trump pressures Europe on Russian oil, pushes China action

NATO vs Russia: Tensions escalate in the Baltic region as NATO and Russia prepare for a potential face-off. Germany-led military exercises are underway, highlighting growing concerns over security and strategic dominance in Eastern Europe.


NATO And Russia: Set For a Face-Off in Baltics 

At the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that Western attempts to include Ukraine in NATO are a primary cause of the ongoing conflict.

Post SCO Summit: Putin Says NATO Expansion Behind Ukraine War  

World leaders, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, are gathering in China for the 25th meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. The summit comes at a time of global tension, with wars and US President Donald Trump’s policies adding to uncertainty. Many see this meeting as important for building a group that could balance Western influence.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-dragon-elephant-tango-will-pm-modi-s-china-visit-change-the-indo-pacific-balance-1756550879120">'Dragon-Elephant tango': Will PM Modi's China visit change Indo-Pacific balance?</a><h2>Can SCO and BRICS become a genuine counterweight to Western alliances?</h2>Two groupings, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) and BRICS, have grown in size and influence in recent years. Both present themselves as voices of the Global South and as platforms to promote a multipolar world, one less dominated by the US and Europe. The SCO, formed in 2001, now has 10 members, including China, Russia, India, Pakistan and Central Asian states, with Belarus joining in 2023. BRICS, created in 2009, has expanded to 11 countries, stretching across Asia, Africa, the Middle East and Latin America. Together, they cover nearly half the world’s population and a large share of global GDP.<h2>SCO: Unity with limits</h2>The SCO began as a security forum but has since expanded into economic and political cooperation. It has staged joint anti-terror drills, launched an anti-terror structure in Tashkent, and in 2024, held its first full counter-terrorism exercise using drones and robotics.Economically, SCO members discuss energy corridors, trade and investment, often linked to China’s Belt and Road Initiative. The 2024 Astana summit saw the launch of an SCO Investors Association to support cross-border projects.Diplomatically, the SCO echoes the language of China and Russia, sovereignty, non-interference, and rejection of Western-backed “colour revolutions”. Yet deep divides persist. India and Pakistan rarely align, and India often resists anti-Western declarations. As a result, the SCO acts more as a forum than a unified bloc.<h2>BRICS: Financial tools against Western dominance</h2>BRICS started with five members (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) and has grown to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Indonesia, the UAE and soon Saudi Arabia. Together, they account for a quarter of global GDP. BRICS has launched its own financial institutions, the New Development Bank and the Contingent Reserve Arrangement, to rival the IMF and World Bank. The bank has issued loans in local currencies, aiming to reduce reliance on the US dollar. Ideas like BRICS Pay, a blockchain-based payment system, are meant to promote trade in members’ currencies.Diplomatically, BRICS seeks to amplify the Global South's voice. At the 2025 Rio summit, leaders called for UN Security Council reform, fairer IMF voting rights, and stronger cooperation on infrastructure. Yet the group faces limits: its members often disagree, especially on Russia’s war in Ukraine, and many remain deeply tied to Western markets.<h2>Western blocs remain more integrated</h2>Compared with the SCO and BRICS, Western alliances like NATO, the EU and the G7 remain more tightly bound. NATO is a military alliance with a collective defence clause and integrated command. The EU has a single market and currency. The G7, though informal, coordinates major economies on sanctions, climate policy and global trade.These Western blocs have deeper structures, stronger enforcement, and higher economic integration than either the SCO or BRICS. While SCO and BRICS issue joint communiqués, they lack the ability to enforce common policies.<h2>Counterweight or counterpart?</h2>Both blocs have expanded their reach: SCO now extends through Eurasia, and BRICS spans Africa, Asia, and beyond. They have established parallel institutions (e.g. SCO’s Regional Antiterrorist Structure; BRICS’s NDB and payment platforms) and issue coordinated messages on global issues. However, major limitations remain. Neither the SCO nor BRICS is a unified military or economic bloc on the model of NATO or the EU. SCO members actively avoid a NATO-like alliance, and BRICS has explicitly stopped short of a common defence structure.Many BRICS economies remain heavily tied to Western markets trade with the US and EU is still a large share of their GDP, which limits how far they can economically decouple.Meanwhile, Western alliances retain deeper integration where it counts, NATO, EU and G7 coordinate security, trade, and technology at a level that SCO and BRICS do not. NATO’s new defence commitments and the EU’s internal market dwarf the SCO’s or BRICS’s loose frameworks. Western unity also remains a comparative advantage: for now, the G7 and EU speak with a largely coherent voice on sanctions and trade (despite occasional US–Europe differences), whereas SCO and BRICS statements often have key absences.Both the SCO and BRICS will have carved out space for non-Western voices and offered alternatives in finance and diplomacy. Yet they have not fully crystallised into viable counterweights on all dimensions. Their collective influence is real but constrained, substantial at the level of ideas and joint declarations, but limited in military capability and practical cohesion. In the coming years, whether SCO and BRICS mature into true counter-blocs will depend on how (and if) they bridge their internal divides and turn summits into coordinated action.

World leaders meet in China for the SCO summit, as SCO and BRICS expand influence, uniting half the world’s population and challenging Western dominance with calls for a multipolar order.

World leaders, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, are gathering in China for the 25th meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. The summit comes at a time of global tension, with wars and US President Donald Trump’s policies adding to uncertainty. Many see this meeting as important for building a group that could balance Western influence. Also read: 'Dragon-Elephant tango': Will PM Modi's China visit change Indo-Pacific balance? Can SCO and BRICS become a genuine counterweight to Western alliances? Two groupings, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) and BRICS, have grown in size and influence in recent years. Both present themselves as voices of the Global South and as platforms to promote a multipolar world, one less dominated by the US and Europe. The SCO, formed in 2001, now has 10 members, including China, Russia, India, Pakistan and Central Asian states, with Belarus joining in 2023. BRICS, created in 2009, has expanded to 11 countries, stretching across Asia, Africa, the Middle East and Latin America. Together, they cover nearly half the world’s population and a large share of global GDP. SCO: Unity with limits The SCO began as a security forum but has since expanded into economic and political cooperation. It has staged joint anti-terror drills, launched an anti-terror structure in Tashkent, and in 2024, held its first full counter-terrorism exercise using drones and robotics. Economically, SCO members discuss energy corridors, trade and investment, often linked to China’s Belt and Road Initiative. The 2024 Astana summit saw the launch of an SCO Investors Association to support cross-border projects. Diplomatically, the SCO echoes the language of China and Russia, sovereignty, non-interference, and rejection of Western-backed “colour revolutions”. Yet deep divides persist. India and Pakistan rarely align, and India often resists anti-Western declarations. As a result, the SCO acts more as a forum than a unified bloc. BRICS: Financial tools against Western dominance BRICS started with five members (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) and has grown to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Indonesia, the UAE and soon Saudi Arabia. Together, they account for a quarter of global GDP. BRICS has launched its own financial institutions, the New Development Bank and the Contingent Reserve Arrangement, to rival the IMF and World Bank. The bank has issued loans in local currencies, aiming to reduce reliance on the US dollar. Ideas like BRICS Pay, a blockchain-based payment system, are meant to promote trade in members’ currencies. Diplomatically, BRICS seeks to amplify the Global South's voice. At the 2025 Rio summit, leaders called for UN Security Council reform, fairer IMF voting rights, and stronger cooperation on infrastructure. Yet the group faces limits: its members often disagree, especially on Russia’s war in Ukraine, and many remain deeply tied to Western markets. Western blocs remain more integrated Compared with the SCO and BRICS, Western alliances like NATO, the EU and the G7 remain more tightly bound. NATO is a military alliance with a collective defence clause and integrated command. The EU has a single market and currency. The G7, though informal, coordinates major economies on sanctions, climate policy and global trade. These Western blocs have deeper structures, stronger enforcement, and higher economic integration than either the SCO or BRICS. While SCO and BRICS issue joint communiqués, they lack the ability to enforce common policies. Counterweight or counterpart? Both blocs have expanded their reach: SCO now extends through Eurasia, and BRICS spans Africa, Asia, and beyond. They have established parallel institutions (e.g. SCO’s Regional Antiterrorist Structure; BRICS’s NDB and payment platforms) and issue coordinated messages on global issues. However, major limitations remain. Neither the SCO nor BRICS is a unified military or economic bloc on the model of NATO or the EU. SCO members actively avoid a NATO-like alliance, and BRICS has explicitly stopped short of a common defence structure. Many BRICS economies remain heavily tied to Western markets trade with the US and EU is still a large share of their GDP, which limits how far they can economically decouple. Meanwhile, Western alliances retain deeper integration where it counts, NATO, EU and G7 coordinate security, trade, and technology at a level that SCO and BRICS do not. NATO’s new defence commitments and the EU’s internal market dwarf the SCO’s or BRICS’s loose frameworks. Western unity also remains a comparative advantage: for now, the G7 and EU speak with a largely coherent voice on sanctions and trade (despite occasional US–Europe differences), whereas SCO and BRICS statements often have key absences. Both the SCO and BRICS will have carved out space for non-Western voices and offered alternatives in finance and diplomacy. Yet they have not fully crystallised into viable counterweights on all dimensions. Their collective influence is real but constrained, substantial at the level of ideas and joint declarations, but limited in military capability and practical cohesion. In the coming years, whether SCO and BRICS mature into true counter-blocs will depend on how (and if) they bridge their internal divides and turn summits into coordinated action.

World leaders meet in China for the SCO summit, as SCO and BRICS expand influence, uniting half the world’s population and challenging Western dominance with calls for a multipolar order.

SCO Summit 2025: Can SCO and BRICS become a genuine counterweight to Western alliances such as NATO, G7 and EU?

NATO’s defense spending is projected to exceed $1.5 trillion in 2025, reflecting heightened security concerns and growing global instability. As member nations ramp up budgets, the alliance is also revisiting its spending target to ensure stronger collective defense and preparedness in the face of evolving threats.

NATO spending to cross $1.5 trillion in 2025 | What's the new spending target?

German Eurofighter jets were scrambled to intercept a Russian IL-20 spy plane operating near NATO airspace over the Baltic Sea. Witness the dramatic moments as elite pilots respond to the incursion, showcasing NATO's rapid reaction capabilities. This incident highlights escalating tensions in the region and the constant vigilance required to protect sovereign skies. Watch the full story here.



Russia Sends Spy Plane Over The Baltic; German Jets Scrambled to Intercept | WION

A Russian airstrike has struck a U.S.-owned factory in Ukraine, escalating tensions amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Amid the fallout, Russia’s Defense Minister is seen inspecting troops at the frontlines—a signaling of heightened military readiness. The attack raises serious concerns over foreign assets and prompts urgent questions about how NATO and Washington will respond to this new escalation.


Russian airstrike hits a U.S. factory: Defence minister inspects troops | Russia-Ukraine war

Russian President Vladimir Putin has outlined new conditions for a potential peace deal with Ukraine, Reuters reported following his meeting with Donald Trump in Alaska. Sources told Reuters that Putin is now demanding Ukraine withdraw completely from the eastern Donbas region, give up ambitions to join NATO, and remain neutral with no Western troops on its soil.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-ukraine-not-interested-in-long-term-settlement-russia-says-putin-ready-to-meet-zelensky-but-raises-issue-of-his-legitimacy-1755790602336">'Ukraine not interested in long-term settlement': Russia says Putin ready to meet Zelensky but raises issue of his 'legitimacy'</a>In return, Moscow would freeze the front lines in the southern Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions, where Russian forces already control about 73% of the territory. Russia currently holds around 88% of the Donbas, according to US estimates. The Kremlin is also willing to return small areas of Kharkiv, Sumy and Dnipropetrovsk regions that it captured, the sources added.<h2>Shift from earlier demands</h2>In June 2024, Putin had insisted Ukraine hand over four regions in full — Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia. Kyiv rejected that outright as surrender. His latest proposal drops full control of the southern provinces but still demands Ukraine leave the Donbas entirely.Despite the adjustment, Kyiv has made clear it will not abandon land recognised internationally as Ukrainian. President Volodymyr Zelensky said, “If we’re talking about simply withdrawing from the east, we cannot do that. It is a matter of our country’s survival, involving the strongest defensive lines.”<h2>NATO membership remains key sticking point</h2>Putin’s offer also includes strict conditions on Ukraine’s future. Moscow wants NATO to pledge never to expand further east, legal limits on Ukraine’s military, and guarantees that no Western peacekeepers will be deployed in the country. But joining NATO remains a constitutional goal for Ukraine. Zelensky has repeatedly said it is not for Moscow to decide his country’s alliances.Putin’s closed-door talks with Trump in Alaska marked the first US–Russia summit in more than four years. The leaders spoke for three hours, focusing almost entirely on the war. Afterwards, Putin said he hoped the meeting would “open up the road to peace in Ukraine,” though he gave no details.Trump, who has styled himself as a “peacemaker president,” later said, “I believe Vladimir Putin wants to see it ended. I feel confident we are going to get it solved.” He has begun arranging a direct meeting between Putin and Zelensky, followed by a trilateral summit involving Washington.<h2>Doubts over Zelensky’s legitimacy</h2>Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Putin was ready to meet Zelensky but warned that issues must be fully worked out in advance. He also questioned Zelensky’s authority to sign a deal, as his term formally expired in May 2024. Kyiv insists he remains legitimate until new elections can be held.<h2>Security guarantees under discussion</h2>According to Russian sources, Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff played a key role in paving the way for the Alaska summit. Putin reportedly told him in Moscow earlier this month that he was ready to compromise. Options for a deal include a three-way Russia–Ukraine–US agreement recognised by the UN Security Council, or a return to the failed 2022 Istanbul talks, which centred on Ukraine adopting permanent neutrality in exchange for international security guarantees. “There are two choices, war or peace, and if there is no peace, then there is more war,” one source close to the&nbsp;Kremlin&nbsp;said.

After meeting Trump, Putin outlined new peace terms, Ukraine must leave Donbas, abandon NATO hopes, and stay neutral. In return, Russia would freeze front lines and return some captured territory.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has outlined new conditions for a potential peace deal with Ukraine, Reuters reported following his meeting with Donald Trump in Alaska. Sources told Reuters that Putin is now demanding Ukraine withdraw completely from the eastern Donbas region, give up ambitions to join NATO, and remain neutral with no Western troops on its soil. Also read: 'Ukraine not interested in long-term settlement': Russia says Putin ready to meet Zelensky but raises issue of his 'legitimacy' In return, Moscow would freeze the front lines in the southern Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions, where Russian forces already control about 73% of the territory. Russia currently holds around 88% of the Donbas, according to US estimates. The Kremlin is also willing to return small areas of Kharkiv, Sumy and Dnipropetrovsk regions that it captured, the sources added. Shift from earlier demands In June 2024, Putin had insisted Ukraine hand over four regions in full — Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia. Kyiv rejected that outright as surrender. His latest proposal drops full control of the southern provinces but still demands Ukraine leave the Donbas entirely. Despite the adjustment, Kyiv has made clear it will not abandon land recognised internationally as Ukrainian. President Volodymyr Zelensky said, “If we’re talking about simply withdrawing from the east, we cannot do that. It is a matter of our country’s survival, involving the strongest defensive lines.” NATO membership remains key sticking point Putin’s offer also includes strict conditions on Ukraine’s future. Moscow wants NATO to pledge never to expand further east, legal limits on Ukraine’s military, and guarantees that no Western peacekeepers will be deployed in the country. But joining NATO remains a constitutional goal for Ukraine. Zelensky has repeatedly said it is not for Moscow to decide his country’s alliances. Putin’s closed-door talks with Trump in Alaska marked the first US–Russia summit in more than four years. The leaders spoke for three hours, focusing almost entirely on the war. Afterwards, Putin said he hoped the meeting would “open up the road to peace in Ukraine,” though he gave no details. Trump, who has styled himself as a “peacemaker president,” later said, “I believe Vladimir Putin wants to see it ended. I feel confident we are going to get it solved.” He has begun arranging a direct meeting between Putin and Zelensky, followed by a trilateral summit involving Washington. Doubts over Zelensky’s legitimacy Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Putin was ready to meet Zelensky but warned that issues must be fully worked out in advance. He also questioned Zelensky’s authority to sign a deal, as his term formally expired in May 2024. Kyiv insists he remains legitimate until new elections can be held. Security guarantees under discussion According to Russian sources, Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff played a key role in paving the way for the Alaska summit. Putin reportedly told him in Moscow earlier this month that he was ready to compromise. Options for a deal include a three-way Russia–Ukraine–US agreement recognised by the UN Security Council, or a return to the failed 2022 Istanbul talks, which centred on Ukraine adopting permanent neutrality in exchange for international security guarantees. “There are two choices, war or peace, and if there is no peace, then there is more war,” one source close to the Kremlin said.

After meeting Trump, Putin outlined new peace terms, Ukraine must leave Donbas, abandon NATO hopes, and stay neutral. In return, Russia would freeze front lines and return some captured territory.

'If there is no peace, then there is more war': Putin lists 'three key demands' for ending Ukraine war - What are they?

The U.S. and NATO have begun drafting long-term security guarantee options for Ukraine after Trump pledged support in a future peace deal. Plans under consideration include deploying European troops under U.S. command—but not under NATO’s banner. Discussions are ongoing amid continued Russian drone strikes and mounting global pressure.

Russia-Ukraine war: NATO military leaders to meet, discuss Ukraine's security

After his meeting with US President Donald Trump in Alaska, Vladimir Putin once again blamed the West for the war in Ukraine. The Russian president insisted the real issue, or the so-called 'root cause' lies in what he called the 'situation around Ukraine.' By this, he meant a long-running struggle over Russia’s security and its place in the world.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-will-the-ukraine-war-end-here-are-the-two-possible-futures-after-trump-putin-summit-1755428286504">How will the Ukraine war end? Here are the two possible futures after Trump-Putin summit</a><h2>Balance of power at the centre</h2>Putin said the root cause of the conflict was the collapse of what he views as a “fair balance in the security sphere in Europe and the world as a whole.” He said peace could only come if that balance is restored, with Russia treated as an equal to the United States and NATO. For the Kremlin, this means undoing the West’s dominance since the Soviet Union broke apart in 1991 during the Cold War.<h2>Claiming Russia is the victim</h2>Putin has repeatedly called the war a tragedy, saying Russians and Ukrainians “have the same roots.” He said he wanted it to end, but blamed the West for pushing Ukraine away from Russia. In his view, Russia is not the aggressor, instead, he portrays his country as a victim of Western bullying.<h2>NATO expansion as the trigger</h2>For years, Putin has said NATO’s growth in Eastern Europe is the main reason for the conflict. Countries such as Poland and Romania joined NATO after the Soviet Union collapsed. When Ukraine looked to follow the same path, Russia drew a red line. Western leaders rejected Moscow’s demands to stop NATO’s expansion, and soon after, Russia invaded.<h2>A Cold War mindset</h2>For Putin, the “root causes” are less about Ukraine itself and more about restoring Russia’s place as a global power, equal to the United States and respected in Europe. Putin's mindset is to restore Russia as one of two global superpowers and revive the Cold War order, where Moscow held sway over its neighbours and sat at the top table of world politics.<h2>A gamble that has backfired</h2>But instead of weakening NATO, Russia’s invasion has made it stronger. Finland and Sweden, once neutral, have now joined the alliance, bringing it even closer to Russia’s borders. What Putin sees as fixing an imbalance may have only deepened it.

Putin argued that the conflict started because the “balance of security” in Europe and beyond was broken after the Cold War. He said peace could only come if that balance is restored, with Russia treated as an equal to the United States and NATO.

After his meeting with US President Donald Trump in Alaska, Vladimir Putin once again blamed the West for the war in Ukraine. The Russian president insisted the real issue, or the so-called 'root cause' lies in what he called the 'situation around Ukraine.' By this, he meant a long-running struggle over Russia’s security and its place in the world. Also read: How will the Ukraine war end? Here are the two possible futures after Trump-Putin summit Balance of power at the centre Putin said the root cause of the conflict was the collapse of what he views as a “fair balance in the security sphere in Europe and the world as a whole.” He said peace could only come if that balance is restored, with Russia treated as an equal to the United States and NATO. For the Kremlin, this means undoing the West’s dominance since the Soviet Union broke apart in 1991 during the Cold War. Claiming Russia is the victim Putin has repeatedly called the war a tragedy, saying Russians and Ukrainians “have the same roots.” He said he wanted it to end, but blamed the West for pushing Ukraine away from Russia. In his view, Russia is not the aggressor, instead, he portrays his country as a victim of Western bullying. NATO expansion as the trigger For years, Putin has said NATO’s growth in Eastern Europe is the main reason for the conflict. Countries such as Poland and Romania joined NATO after the Soviet Union collapsed. When Ukraine looked to follow the same path, Russia drew a red line. Western leaders rejected Moscow’s demands to stop NATO’s expansion, and soon after, Russia invaded. A Cold War mindset For Putin, the “root causes” are less about Ukraine itself and more about restoring Russia’s place as a global power, equal to the United States and respected in Europe. Putin's mindset is to restore Russia as one of two global superpowers and revive the Cold War order, where Moscow held sway over its neighbours and sat at the top table of world politics. A gamble that has backfired But instead of weakening NATO, Russia’s invasion has made it stronger. Finland and Sweden, once neutral, have now joined the alliance, bringing it even closer to Russia’s borders. What Putin sees as fixing an imbalance may have only deepened it.

Putin argued that the conflict started because the “balance of security” in Europe and beyond was broken after the Cold War. He said peace could only come if that balance is restored, with Russia treated as an equal to the United States and NATO.

Is 'western bullying' real reason for Ukraine war? Putin reveals 'root causes' behind Moscow's invasion of Kyiv

U.S. President Donald Trump advised Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to give up Crimea and commit to not joining NATO, sparking debates over potential solutions to the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict. Dr Charles Kupchan (Senior Fellow, Council on Foreign Relations) gives his thoughts on the upcoming meeting of the two. 


Trump Urges Zelensky to Relinquish Crimea, Stay Out of NATO 

It started as an ordinary Soviet training flight, and became one of the strangest aviation incidents of the Cold War. 

It started as an ordinary Soviet training flight, and became one of the strangest aviation incidents of the Cold War.&nbsp;

How a fighter jet flew 900 kms across Europe without a pilot, before crashing into a farmhouse

NATO’s top military commander on Thursday (Jul 17) confirmed that preparations were underway for the delivery of Patriot missile systems to Ukraine. He also warned that Russia is and will remain a threat to the European alliance, even if a peaceful solution is reached over the war in Ukraine. Alexus Grynkewich said that they are closely working with the Germans for the transfer of the US-made defence systems, following the guidance he has been given “to move out as quickly as possible.”&nbsp;This comes after US President Donald Trump’s announcement earlier this week that Washington would send Patriot air defence systems to Ukraine to help the war-torn nation fight off Russian invasion.&nbsp;“I’m not going to reveal to the Russians or anyone else the exact numbers of weapons that we’re transferring or when those will happen, but what I will say is that preparations are underway,” Grynkewich said. “We’re working very closely with the Germans on the Patriot transfer, and the guidance that I’ve been given has been to move out as quickly as possible. So we’re doing that. And then we’re also looking at other capabilities and what those needs are, and working on proposals for our political leadership.”&nbsp;He further added, “We’re going to move as quickly as we can on this.” The top military commander said that the defence systems already in Europe can be moved to Ukraine quickly, and later, the production line in the US can backfill them.“Air defence is important on the modern battlefield, and we’ve seen the scale of recent Russian attacks against Ukraine, so it is a key focus area,” he said.&nbsp;Grynkewich, who took the most senior allied post in Europe earlier this month, also warned that even if a peaceful solution is reached in Ukraine, Russia will remain a threat. “War persists on our doorstep in Ukraine,” he said. “While we seek a peaceful resolution, even if that resolution comes, the Russian capabilities that are there will reconstitute and just by their very existence will be something that we’ll have to think of from the military perspective, and understand how it threatens the Alliance and the freedoms that we hold dear. Russia will undoubtedly, in my mind, remain an enduring threat.”&nbsp;Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Russia Warns of Increased Tensions With NATO&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-russia-warns-of-increased-tensions-with-nato-global-stability-at-risk-wion-1752743667634/embed

Grynkewich, who took the most senior allied post in Europe earlier this month, also warned that even if a peaceful solution is reached in Ukraine, Russia will remain a threat.

NATO’s top military commander on Thursday (Jul 17) confirmed that preparations were underway for the delivery of Patriot missile systems to Ukraine. He also warned that Russia is and will remain a threat to the European alliance, even if a peaceful solution is reached over the war in Ukraine. Alexus Grynkewich said that they are closely working with the Germans for the transfer of the US-made defence systems, following the guidance he has been given “to move out as quickly as possible.” This comes after US President Donald Trump’s announcement earlier this week that Washington would send Patriot air defence systems to Ukraine to help the war-torn nation fight off Russian invasion. “I’m not going to reveal to the Russians or anyone else the exact numbers of weapons that we’re transferring or when those will happen, but what I will say is that preparations are underway,” Grynkewich said. “We’re working very closely with the Germans on the Patriot transfer, and the guidance that I’ve been given has been to move out as quickly as possible. So we’re doing that. And then we’re also looking at other capabilities and what those needs are, and working on proposals for our political leadership.” He further added, “We’re going to move as quickly as we can on this.” The top military commander said that the defence systems already in Europe can be moved to Ukraine quickly, and later, the production line in the US can backfill them. “Air defence is important on the modern battlefield, and we’ve seen the scale of recent Russian attacks against Ukraine, so it is a key focus area,” he said. Grynkewich, who took the most senior allied post in Europe earlier this month, also warned that even if a peaceful solution is reached in Ukraine, Russia will remain a threat. “War persists on our doorstep in Ukraine,” he said. “While we seek a peaceful resolution, even if that resolution comes, the Russian capabilities that are there will reconstitute and just by their very existence will be something that we’ll have to think of from the military perspective, and understand how it threatens the Alliance and the freedoms that we hold dear. Russia will undoubtedly, in my mind, remain an enduring threat.” Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Russia Warns of Increased Tensions With NATO https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-russia-warns-of-increased-tensions-with-nato-global-stability-at-risk-wion-1752743667634/embed

Grynkewich, who took the most senior allied post in Europe earlier this month, also warned that even if a peaceful solution is reached in Ukraine, Russia will remain a threat.

‘Moving out as quickly as possible’: NATO top commander says preparations underway to deliver Patriots to Ukraine

Mark Rutte, the Secretary General of NATO, warned India and several other countries that they could face severe consequences, including secondary sanctions, if they continue to trade with Russia. He made the remark after meeting US senators, a day after Donald Trump gave an ultimatum to Russia to either announce a peace deal with Ukraine within 50 days or face crippling sanctions.<h2>What did Mark Rutte say and why?</h2>Mark Rutte warned those living in Beijing or Delhi that they could be hit by sanctions if their governments continue trading with Moscow, which is facing pressure from the West over its protracted war against Ukraine.&nbsp;Mark Rutte asked the leaders of nations like India, China, and Brazil to speak with Vladimir Putin and convince him to accept a US-brokered peace deal.&nbsp;&nbsp;"So please make the phone call to Vladimir Putin and tell him that he has to get serious about peace talks, because otherwise this will slam back on Brazil, on India, and China in a massive way," Rutte was quoted as saying by Reuters.&nbsp;Rutte promised that European countries would find the money to support Ukraine's war efforts so that it is in a strong position during peace talks with Russia. He vowed that, along with the US, Europe would help Ukraine acquire air defence, missiles, and ammunition.<h2>Why did he attack India?</h2>India has been buying Russian oil, facing the ire of the United States and Europe. The West accuses India and other countries that have been buying Russian energy products of funding the war in Ukraine. They claim the money Russia generates from these deals provides Moscow with the financial resources needed to sustain the protracted war. New Delhi says it has been ensuring India's energy security by buying discounted oil from Moscow and that it is doing what's best for its people.<h2>Who is Mark Rutte?</h2>Mark Rutte became the 14th Secretary General of NATO on October 1, 2024. He is the former prime minister of the Netherlands, having served in the post for 14 years from October 2010 to July 2024. "He is a committed European and transatlanticist and was instrumental in bolstering his country’s role at the heart of NATO and the European Union," NATO's website reads.&nbsp;He was a member of the Dutch parliament from January to May 2003 and leader of the liberal Dutch People’s Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD) from 2006 to 2023. In 2010, he became the first liberal to be the PM of the Netherlands in 92 years. Before joining politics, Rutte was a human resources manager at Unilever. He also worked as a guest teacher at some schools in The Hague.

Mark Rutte, the Secretary General of NATO, warned India and several other countries that they could face severe consequences, including secondary sanctions, if they continue to trade with Russia. 

Mark Rutte, the Secretary General of NATO, warned India and several other countries that they could face severe consequences, including secondary sanctions, if they continue to trade with Russia. He made the remark after meeting US senators, a day after Donald Trump gave an ultimatum to Russia to either announce a peace deal with Ukraine within 50 days or face crippling sanctions. What did Mark Rutte say and why? Mark Rutte warned those living in Beijing or Delhi that they could be hit by sanctions if their governments continue trading with Moscow, which is facing pressure from the West over its protracted war against Ukraine. Mark Rutte asked the leaders of nations like India, China, and Brazil to speak with Vladimir Putin and convince him to accept a US-brokered peace deal. "So please make the phone call to Vladimir Putin and tell him that he has to get serious about peace talks, because otherwise this will slam back on Brazil, on India, and China in a massive way," Rutte was quoted as saying by Reuters. Rutte promised that European countries would find the money to support Ukraine's war efforts so that it is in a strong position during peace talks with Russia. He vowed that, along with the US, Europe would help Ukraine acquire air defence, missiles, and ammunition. Why did he attack India? India has been buying Russian oil, facing the ire of the United States and Europe. The West accuses India and other countries that have been buying Russian energy products of funding the war in Ukraine. They claim the money Russia generates from these deals provides Moscow with the financial resources needed to sustain the protracted war. New Delhi says it has been ensuring India's energy security by buying discounted oil from Moscow and that it is doing what's best for its people. Who is Mark Rutte? Mark Rutte became the 14th Secretary General of NATO on October 1, 2024. He is the former prime minister of the Netherlands, having served in the post for 14 years from October 2010 to July 2024. "He is a committed European and transatlanticist and was instrumental in bolstering his country’s role at the heart of NATO and the European Union," NATO's website reads. He was a member of the Dutch parliament from January to May 2003 and leader of the liberal Dutch People’s Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD) from 2006 to 2023. In 2010, he became the first liberal to be the PM of the Netherlands in 92 years. Before joining politics, Rutte was a human resources manager at Unilever. He also worked as a guest teacher at some schools in The Hague.

Mark Rutte warned those living in Beijing or Delhi that they could be hit by sanctions if their governments continue trading with Moscow.

Why did NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte threaten India?

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Jul 11) said that the United States is selling weapons to its NATO allies in Europe so they can provide them to Ukraine to defend against Russia. This comes as Kyiv witnesses a recent escalation in Moscow’s drone and missile attacks. Earlier on Thursday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Kyiv had received positive “signals” from the Trump administration about new weapons supplies following a telephone conversation between the two leaders.&nbsp;“We’re sending weapons to NATO, and NATO is paying for those weapons, 100%,” Trump said in an interview with NBC. “So what we’re doing is, the weapons that are going out are going to NATO, and then NATO is going to be giving those weapons (to Ukraine), and NATO is paying for those weapons.”&nbsp;Last week, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that some of the US-made weapons that Ukraine is seeking are deployed with NATO allies in Europe, which could be transferred to Ukraine. He added that European nations could then buy replacements from the US.&nbsp;“It’s a lot faster to move something, for example, from Germany to Ukraine than it is to order it from a (US) factory and get it there,” Rubio told reporters during the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) gathering in Malaysia’s Kuala Lumpur.&nbsp;As Ukraine is seeking US-made Patriot air defence systems to counter Russian ballistic and cruise missiles, the Trump administration has given conflicting signals about its willingness to provide more essential military aid to Ukraine to defend against Russia’s invasion, which has entered its fourth year.&nbsp;Earlier, the US president said that he would keep sending he would keep sending weapons to Ukraine to defend itself against Russia after pausing some weapons shipments.&nbsp;Rubio said that the US is encouraging NATO allies “to provide those weapons, systems, the defensive systems that Ukraine seeks … since they have them in their stocks, and then we can enter into financial agreements with them, with us, where they can purchase the replacements.”&nbsp;Zelensky said on Thursday that Ukraine has asked other nations to supply an additional 10 Patriot systems and missiles. He added that Germany is ready to provide two systems, and Norway has agreed to deliver one.

Earlier on Thursday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Kyiv had received positive “signals” from the Trump administration about new weapons supplies following a telephone conversation between the two leaders.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Jul 11) said that the United States is selling weapons to its NATO allies in Europe so they can provide them to Ukraine to defend against Russia. This comes as Kyiv witnesses a recent escalation in Moscow’s drone and missile attacks. Earlier on Thursday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Kyiv had received positive “signals” from the Trump administration about new weapons supplies following a telephone conversation between the two leaders. “We’re sending weapons to NATO, and NATO is paying for those weapons, 100%,” Trump said in an interview with NBC. “So what we’re doing is, the weapons that are going out are going to NATO, and then NATO is going to be giving those weapons (to Ukraine), and NATO is paying for those weapons.” Last week, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that some of the US-made weapons that Ukraine is seeking are deployed with NATO allies in Europe, which could be transferred to Ukraine. He added that European nations could then buy replacements from the US. “It’s a lot faster to move something, for example, from Germany to Ukraine than it is to order it from a (US) factory and get it there,” Rubio told reporters during the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) gathering in Malaysia’s Kuala Lumpur. As Ukraine is seeking US-made Patriot air defence systems to counter Russian ballistic and cruise missiles, the Trump administration has given conflicting signals about its willingness to provide more essential military aid to Ukraine to defend against Russia’s invasion, which has entered its fourth year. Earlier, the US president said that he would keep sending he would keep sending weapons to Ukraine to defend itself against Russia after pausing some weapons shipments. Rubio said that the US is encouraging NATO allies “to provide those weapons, systems, the defensive systems that Ukraine seeks … since they have them in their stocks, and then we can enter into financial agreements with them, with us, where they can purchase the replacements.” Zelensky said on Thursday that Ukraine has asked other nations to supply an additional 10 Patriot systems and missiles. He added that Germany is ready to provide two systems, and Norway has agreed to deliver one.

Earlier on Thursday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Kyiv had received positive “signals” from the Trump administration about new weapons supplies following a telephone conversation between the two leaders.

NATO buying weapons for Ukraine? Trump says US will sell arms to European allies to aid Kyiv amid Russia war

Russian President Vladimir Putin has signalled a shift in Moscow’s military spending strategy, announcing a planned cut in defence expenditure from next year. The statement, made during a press conference in Minsk, comes as NATO member states move in the opposite direction, agreeing to raise collective defence spending to 5 per cent of GDP by 2035. Putin acknowledged that Russia’s military budget, which currently stands at 6.3 per cent of GDP, 13.5 trillion rubles ($172 billion), which is unsustainable in the long term.&nbsp;<h2>Domestic pressures behind Moscow’s spending rethink</h2>&nbsp;“We paid for it with inflation, but now we are fighting this inflation,” he said, as reported by RT. Defence expenditure is expected to account for nearly a third of Russia’s 2025 federal budget, the highest since the Cold War. However, falling energy revenues, slowing growth, and a widening fiscal deficit have raised concerns in Moscow. The finance ministry has revised the 2025 budget deficit to 1.7 per cent of GDP, up from an earlier forecast of 0.5 per cent.&nbsp;Despite the announcement, Western analysts remain sceptical. Since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Russia has significantly expanded military production and personnel recruitment, with defence plants operating at full capacity and financial incentives offered to boost enlistment. The suggestion of a cut, observers argue, may reflect more a rhetorical positioning than a confirmed policy shift.&nbsp;<h2>NATO’s new posture reflects strategic reset</h2>&nbsp;NATO leaders this week agreed on a sweeping new defence framework, raising the alliance’s target from 2 per cent to 5 per cent of GDP over the next decade. The plan allocates 3.5 per cent for core military capabilities and 1.5 per cent for broader security functions such as cyber defence, energy infrastructure, and logistical mobility. Speaking at the summit in The Hague, NATO officials said the move was essential to address the “long-term threat posed by Russia” and ensure alliance readiness in a more contested global environment.&nbsp;Putin criticised the decision, suggesting that the increased NATO spending would largely benefit the United States’ military-industrial complex. “Let them (NATO) spend. It won't make them safer, and it will hurt them socially and economically,” he said, according to RT. He added, “So who is preparing for some kind of aggressive actions? Us or them?”&nbsp;<h2>A fractured peace and uncertain calculations</h2>&nbsp;The divergence underscores the erosion of post–Cold War strategic stability. With negotiations between Russia and Ukraine stalled and no agreement on key territorial issues, the broader security architecture appears to be entering a new phase. While Russia seeks to ease budgetary strain, NATO's posture marks a firm commitment to long-term deterrence—one that may redefine European defence for the coming decade.&nbsp;

Putin acknowledged that Russia’s military budget, which currently stands at 6.3 per cent of GDP, 13.5 trillion rubles ($172 billion), which is unsustainable in the long term.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has signalled a shift in Moscow’s military spending strategy, announcing a planned cut in defence expenditure from next year. The statement, made during a press conference in Minsk, comes as NATO member states move in the opposite direction, agreeing to raise collective defence spending to 5 per cent of GDP by 2035. Putin acknowledged that Russia’s military budget, which currently stands at 6.3 per cent of GDP, 13.5 trillion rubles ($172 billion), which is unsustainable in the long term. Domestic pressures behind Moscow’s spending rethink “We paid for it with inflation, but now we are fighting this inflation,” he said, as reported by RT. Defence expenditure is expected to account for nearly a third of Russia’s 2025 federal budget, the highest since the Cold War. However, falling energy revenues, slowing growth, and a widening fiscal deficit have raised concerns in Moscow. The finance ministry has revised the 2025 budget deficit to 1.7 per cent of GDP, up from an earlier forecast of 0.5 per cent. Despite the announcement, Western analysts remain sceptical. Since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Russia has significantly expanded military production and personnel recruitment, with defence plants operating at full capacity and financial incentives offered to boost enlistment. The suggestion of a cut, observers argue, may reflect more a rhetorical positioning than a confirmed policy shift. NATO’s new posture reflects strategic reset NATO leaders this week agreed on a sweeping new defence framework, raising the alliance’s target from 2 per cent to 5 per cent of GDP over the next decade. The plan allocates 3.5 per cent for core military capabilities and 1.5 per cent for broader security functions such as cyber defence, energy infrastructure, and logistical mobility. Speaking at the summit in The Hague, NATO officials said the move was essential to address the “long-term threat posed by Russia” and ensure alliance readiness in a more contested global environment. Putin criticised the decision, suggesting that the increased NATO spending would largely benefit the United States’ military-industrial complex. “Let them (NATO) spend. It won't make them safer, and it will hurt them socially and economically,” he said, according to RT. He added, “So who is preparing for some kind of aggressive actions? Us or them?” A fractured peace and uncertain calculations The divergence underscores the erosion of post–Cold War strategic stability. With negotiations between Russia and Ukraine stalled and no agreement on key territorial issues, the broader security architecture appears to be entering a new phase. While Russia seeks to ease budgetary strain, NATO's posture marks a firm commitment to long-term deterrence—one that may redefine European defence for the coming decade.

Putin acknowledged that Russia’s military budget, which currently stands at 6.3 per cent of GDP, 13.5 trillion rubles ($172 billion), which is unsustainable in the long term.

Russia weighs military spending cuts as NATO targets 5% defence boost! Here’s why

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