Russia is rearming quickly and could be a “real threat” to Europe militarily by 2030, according to France’s top general Thierry Burkhard. Speaking to The Economist, Burkhard warned that Russia’s combat experience and resilience make it especially dangerous in the long term.
Set to step down on September 1, the general also noted growing defense cooperation among European powers and expressed confidence that the US will maintain a military presence in Europe—even if reduced.
These concerns come as NATO’s relationship with Russia reaches a historic low. Once a more cooperative partnership, ties between the North Atlantic Treaty Organization and Moscow have deteriorated sharply, now resembling the tense standoff of the Cold War. NATO leaders view Russia as a direct security threat, but repeated warnings and condemnation from the Alliance have so far had little effect on the Kremlin.
So, how has a previously constructive relationship between NATO and Russia turned so fractious? Click through this gallery and find out more about why Russia fell out with NATO.