Russia threatens systematic strikes on Kyiv as European capitals fear Putin may expand war beyond Ukraine
Russia has intensified threats against the Baltic states and Kyiv, warning of systematic strikes and escalating tensions as NATO prepares to reinforce Latvia and Estonia, while Western intelligence suggests Putin may expand the conflict to test alliance cohesion. European officials fear Russia’s operational risks could rise amid political turmoil, with Sweden’s defense minister noting a deterioration in Europe’s security environment over the past 24 months.
Russia has escalated threats against NATO-aligned Baltic states, accusing Latvia of hosting Ukrainian drone operators and warning of strikes on decision-making centers. Air raid alarms in Lithuania last week followed suspected Russian drone incursions from Belarus, while Moscow published addresses of European companies allegedly aiding Ukraine’s drone production, threatening retaliation if military support continues. Western intelligence warns President Vladimir Putin may seek to expand the conflict to test NATO cohesion, targeting Baltic nations, Swedish/Danish islands, or Arctic territories. Sweden’s Defense Minister Pål Jonson described a ‘deteriorated’ security environment, with officials fearing Russia could exploit upcoming political turmoil, including far-right gains pushing for resumed Russian oil/gas purchases and reduced Ukraine aid. NATO is reinforcing Latvia and Estonia’s defense, with Germany and the Netherlands’ joint corps in Münster assuming responsibility for both countries in case of war. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized that attacks on the Baltics would test all of Europe, as Russia’s frontline losses in Ukraine—estimated at 35,000 soldiers monthly—threaten its ability to sustain the war without forced mobilization. Russia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs ordered foreign diplomats to leave Kyiv immediately after retaliating for a Ukrainian drone strike on Starobilsk that killed 21. Earlier, Moscow launched 600 drones and 90 missiles at Kyiv, killing four and injuring 100, including the first wartime use of its Oreshnik hypersonic missile against Bila Tserkva. Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov warned US Secretary of State Marco Rubio of Putin’s planned systematic strikes on Kyiv, though Rubio confirmed no active negotiations exist. US President Trump’s threats to withdraw from NATO and reduce Europe’s military presence add to concerns over alliance unity. European officials stress the need for solidarity, with Latvia and Estonia now prioritized for NATO’s enhanced defensive measures amid Russia’s growing aggression.
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