Andrius Kubilius, the European Commissioner for Space and Defense, announced that German intelligence has obtained credible evidence suggesting that Russian President Vladimir Putin and the Kremlin are discussing a possible attack against NATO. It remains unclear whether these are merely exploratory talks or if active preparations for a direct confrontation with NATO and the United States are underway.

If Russia is indeed reckless enough to initiate such a conflict, it would likely be coordinated with China and North Korea—and possibly Iran—making it a war that would extend far beyond Europe.