Alexus Grynkewich says NATO ready to fight tonight in Warsaw speech
U.S. General Alexus Grynkewich told an audience in Warsaw that the military alliance is prepared to fight tonight. His remarks follow warnings from European officials that Russia could stage covert attacks or a limited military incursion. Grynkewich spoke Monday at the Warsaw Security Forum to present what he termed a theory of victory.
The commander said he does not believe that a conflict is imminent or inevitable. Preparing for war and keeping communication lines open remains the best way to maintain peace, he said.
Grynkewich provided no specific details about the kind of attack, the location, or the forces involved. He said combined land, sea and air forces would stop Moscow from seizing or holding ground.
“We will block the initial attack. If the attack persists, we will blunt it and prevent any enemy advance. And if required, we will break the enemy’s forces and the operational war-fighting system arrayed against us.”
That response includes anything supporting or controlling the attacking force, Grynkewich said. He urged members to coordinate responses and double down on support for Ukraine.
European nations have faced increased covert Russian activity in recent months, officials said. Incidents include an arson attack on an Estonian defense company. Another incident involved an attempt to attack a Ukrainian aircraft at a German airport.
Alliance Addresses Readiness and Regional Defense Concerns
President Donald Trump agreed to buy diesel from Russia to lower domestic fuel prices. Earlier this year, Trump said he was pulling American troops from Europe. His war with Iran led to critical shortages of advanced air defense missiles in Europe.
Grynkewich said troop deployments remain a political decision. He told the conference no one should question the American commitment to the alliance.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk warned that Russia plans drone or rocket strikes on European allies. Denmark’s Defense Intelligence Agency reported a low but growing risk of a limited Russian military attack. The agency warned Russia could target countries bordering its territory.
Grynkewich said the alliance will see an attack coming. It is unlikely to be caught by surprise, he said.
Some member nations previously struggled in exercises simulating drone warfare. Multiple attack drones have crashed in alliance nations bordering Russia, Ukraine and Belarus. In May, residents in Vilnius took shelter after a drone entered Lithuanian airspace.
Spokesperson Col. Martin O’Donnell said nations are deploying ground sensors and technology to counter drones. The sensor network is being established. It has not yet taken down any drones.
In September, Germany accused Russia of a drone plot at Leipzig airport. British officials said they thwarted a plot against a drone facility outside London. Western officials have blamed Russia for at least 211 incidents since the invasion of Ukraine.
The Warsaw Security Forum brings together military leaders and defense officials to discuss international security policies. The annual event provides a platform for member states to evaluate regional threats.
The Danish intelligence service said Moscow aims to divert resources from Ukraine. Both the Danish service and O’Donnell said an outright attack remains difficult during fighting in Ukraine.
