German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has issued a stark warning that intelligence assessments suggest Russia is preparing for an attack on NATO by 2029. This follows recent alerts from senior German officials and concerns raised by former NATO commander General Philip Breedlove, who emphasized the need to deter Russian aggression. The warning comes as Ukraine and Russia continue negotiations for a potential peace deal, with the U.S. awaiting final stages of the agreement.
Wadephul stated that Russia is creating the option for itself to wage war against NATO by 2029, and urged collective action to prevent further aggression. The minister’s remarks mark the third time this month that German officials have raised alarms over potential confrontation with Russia. In an interview with Fox News Digital, retired Gen. Philip Breedlove acknowledged the severity of the German assessments, stating that Russia’s intent for Eastern Europe is clear.
Breedlove recalled that Russia issued two documents before the full-scale invasion, signaling the potential for conflict if they were not signed. He warned that Putin’s ambitions extend beyond Ukraine, aiming to reshape the security architecture of Eastern Europe, reverting to a Cold War status. Breedlove expressed doubts about Russia’s ability to rebuild its forces within five years, emphasizing the need to deter aggression and manage the consequences of wartime losses.
The German foreign minister’s warning aligns with comments from Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, who suggested a potential war between Russia and NATO could begin in 2029. Top military commanders, including Lt. Gen. Alexander Sollfrank, have also delivered similar assessments, indicating that a limited attack on NATO territory could occur at any time, with a larger assault possible by 2029 if rearmament continues. These warnings come amid ongoing U.S.-led peace negotiations, with Trump expressing reluctance to meet with Putin or Zelenskyy until the deal is finalized.