Overview
- Lieutenant General Alexander Sollfrank, who leads Germany’s Operational Command, said Russia has the capability for a small, quick, regionally limited attack and that NATO’s posture will heavily influence Moscow’s decision.
- He warned a larger assault could become possible around 2029 if Russia’s rearmament continues unchecked.
- Sollfrank assessed that Russia’s air force remains substantial, its nuclear and missile forces are intact, and it retains enough tanks as it seeks about 1.5 million troops despite ground losses.
- He characterized drone incursions, sabotage and cyber activity as elements of Russia’s non‑linear doctrine meant to provoke, collect intelligence and gauge NATO reactions.
- Germany is stepping up defense planning with “Operation Plan Germany” to route up to 800,000 allied troops through the country if needed, alongside plans to reach 3.5% of GDP in defense spending by 2029 and add roughly 60,000 troops.