Swedish Chief of Defence General Michael Claesson warned that Russia might not wait years for Europe to rebuild its military capabilities, suggesting Moscow could test NATO unity through military or hybrid operations against European countries.

Speaking to journalists in Paris, Claesson posed the fundamental question: 'Why would Russia wait?' Noting Europe will be militarily stronger in five or ten years, he argued it would be logical for Moscow to act sooner if it saw a strategic interest, as reported by French newspaper Le Figaro.

Despite Russia's involvement in the war in Ukraine, the Swedish military official noted it still maintains significant capabilities, including a military industry producing ammunition at a high rate, an air force that has not been severely damaged, a submarine fleet, and potential for hybrid operations.

He added that Sweden, which joined NATO in 2024, monitors Russian movements almost daily in the Baltic Sea and airspace, stating Moscow has shown over the past two decades a willingness to take 'significant strategic risks,' calling not to underestimate this possibility, while confirming no unusual Russian military movements have been recorded so far.

Reinforcing deployment in Northern Europe: Claesson raised the possibility of Russia conducting a 'false flag' operation against a Baltic state or Poland to test the alliance's cohesion, based on US intelligence assessments, while noting the latest NATO summit showed continued alliance unity despite challenges.

As part of strengthening defenses, Sweden is preparing to lead an advanced ground force in Finland, consisting of units each comprising between four and five thousand soldiers, with expected participation from France and other European countries, reflecting growing interest in protecting Europe's northern front.