Europe faces growing threat as peace negotiations falter

09:50

By: Dakir Madiha

Europe faces growing threat as peace negotiations falter

NATO’s secretary general Mark Rutte has warned that Europe must prepare for the possibility of war, describing the continent as Russia’s next potential target. Speaking in Berlin, Rutte said Russia could be ready to challenge NATO militarily within five years, urging member states to increase defense production and strengthen deterrence measures. “Conflict is already at our doorstep,” he said, emphasizing that Moscow’s ambitions extend beyond Ukraine.

Security guarantees stall peace efforts

The warning coincides with deep divisions over a potential peace deal for Ukraine. U.S. President Donald Trump said Washington would only attend upcoming European talks if there is “a good chance” of real progress. According to the White House, Trump expressed frustration with what he views as stagnant diplomacy, saying he is “tired of meetings that lead nowhere.”

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed his government had submitted a new 20-point proposal to the U.S., revised after consultations with European partners. The plan reflects Ukraine’s concerns about a previous American idea to label parts of the Donbas region as a “free economic zone” after a withdrawal of Ukrainian forces. Zelenskyy questioned how any agreement could ensure Russian compliance, stressing that guarantees must be legally binding and approved by the U.S. Congress.

Heavy losses push war deeper

Rutte cited estimates showing that Russia has sustained more than 1.1 million casualties since the 2022 invasion began, losing about 1,200 troops daily in 2025. He said Moscow has launched over 46,000 drones and missiles this year alone, reaching near-maximum production capacity. “A leader willing to wage such destruction cannot be underestimated,” he warned, noting that the threat extends beyond Ukraine’s borders.

Trump acknowledged the need for strong security guarantees as part of any peace framework but stopped short of offering details. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz confirmed that discussions with the U.S. are scheduled for the weekend, with follow-up meetings possible in Berlin early next week.