Belgian Army Chief Michel Hofman has raised concerns about the Kremlin’s future plans, suggesting that after Ukraine, Moldova and the Baltic countries could be the following targets of Russian aggression.
As tensions continue to escalate in Eastern Europe, the chief of defence for the Belgian armed forces has called for urgent preparations to ensure Europe’s ability to defend itself.
Hofman, currently visiting Belgian soldiers stationed in Romania, emphasized Russia’s demonstrated willingness to attack its neighbours.
Speaking to Belgian news outlet VRT, he noted that Russian President Vladimir Putin’s language is often ambiguous, leaving room for speculation about Moscow’s future intentions.
“Europe must urgently prepare and make it clear that it can defend itself,” Hofman asserted, adding that the continent should be ready to counterattack if necessary.
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which began in February 2022, has showcased Russia’s determination to pursue military objectives despite resilient resistance from Kyiv’s forces.
Hofman warned against underestimating Moscow’s capabilities, pointing out that Russia has transitioned into a war industry. While current conditions may suggest a temporary weakening of Moscow’s forces due to the ongoing conflict, the army chief cautioned that this weakness could be short-lived.
“If Russia wins the war, it will eventually regenerate the war machine and rebuild its armed forces,” Hofman cautioned.
The implications of a resurgent Russian military pose a threat not only to Ukraine but potentially to neighbouring countries, heightening concerns about Moldova and the Baltic states.
Moldova, which shares a border with Ukraine, faces a precarious situation, especially considering the Kremlin’s support for Transnistria—a region within Moldova that has functioned as an unrecognized state since the fall of the USSR.
With a Soviet-era flag and Russian as its official language, Transnistria remains a potential flashpoint in the region.
To the west of Russia, the Baltic countries—Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania—enjoy the protection of NATO’s standard defence clause.
However, an attack by Putin’s forces on any of these nations could trigger a broader conflict, placing the alliance’s commitment to collective defence to the test.
The urgency of Hofman’s warning underscores the need for a unified and proactive response from European nations.
Diplomatic efforts, bolstered by military preparedness, must take centre stage to deter potential aggression and preserve regional stability.
The international community, particularly NATO, faces a critical juncture in determining its response to the evolving geopolitical landscape.
As Europe braces for the possibility of further incursions by the Kremlin, the words of the Belgian Army Chief serve as a poignant reminder that vigilance and decisive action are paramount in safeguarding the continent’s security and upholding the principles of collective defence.
The spectre of conflict looms large, urging leaders to prioritize unity and resilience in the face of an uncertain future.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
