Europe Under Russian Kinetic Pressure: A Call for Unified NATO Deterrence
An ISW analysis argues Moscow is conducting coordinated, state-directed kinetic and cognitive attacks on Europe beyond Ukraine, and NATO must establish a shared threat framework, publicly name these actions, and accelerate rearmament and adaptation—drawing on Ukraine’s lessons and preparing for near-term limited conventional attacks that could fracture alliance unity. Language matters: calling such actions 'provocations' or 'hybrid warfare' risks constraining responses. The report urges immediate measures to harden infrastructure, bolster air and cyber defenses, and integrate Ukraine-derived lessons into a flexible, drone-enabled deterrence and warfighting concept, rather than assuming Russia will only threaten NATO after 2029.