Baltics on edge as CIA chief's Moscow trip sparks NATO risk debate

CIA Director John Ratcliffe’s secret trip to Moscow was reportedly meant to warn Russia against attacking NATO members, prompting renewed questions about Baltic security. Analysts say Moscow could attempt a limited test of NATO’s Article 5, though there is no visible large-scale buildup around the Baltics. Baltic leaders insist the threat level hasn’t changed while calling for greater preparedness; some observers caution that any Russian action could be limited and aimed at testing alliance cohesion rather than seizing territory. The visit also fuels broader debate about U.S. focus in Europe and the region’s defense posture.