Russia is reportedly gearing up for a potential conflict with NATO as it shows no interest in halting the ongoing war in Ukraine. Experts are concerned that Russian President Vladimir Putin is amassing a reserve of new military personnel, with nearly 300,000 individuals having enlisted with the Russian Ministry of Defence since the beginning of the year. The Institute for the Study of War reveals that recruitment numbers are rising by approximately 8,000 recruits per week, many of whom are being designated as part of a strategic reserve formed by Russia starting in July 2025.
Insiders suggest that these actions signal Russia’s determination to pursue its military objectives and potentially engage in a direct confrontation with NATO. UK’s Foreign Secretary has issued a stern warning to Putin following a recent incident where Russian fighter jets violated Estonian airspace, emphasizing that NATO is prepared to defend its skies and territory against such provocations.
The unauthorized entry of three Russian MIG-31 jets into Estonian airspace, without proper communication or transponder signals, has sparked international condemnation. Estonia’s Prime Minister has raised the possibility of invoking NATO’s Article 4, which pertains to consultations among allies regarding territorial security threats. US President Donald Trump has also expressed concern over the situation, highlighting the potential risks associated with such incidents.