Europe faces a growing shadow of war, UK armed forces minister Al Carns warned while opening a new military intelligence hub at RAF Wyton. Defence officials say aggressive Russian cyber and information operations against UK interests have risen by 50 per cent in the past year. Nato secretary general Mark Rutte reinforced the alarm, warning Europe must prepare for conflict on a scale not seen since the mid-20th century.
Moscow insists it does not seek war with Europe but is “prepared” if provoked — language that echoes pre-2022 claims about Ukraine and deeply concerns Western intelligence agencies. The central question now is whether Ukraine can hold out as Russian pressure intensifies and US commitment appears to waver. Donald Trump has said Ukraine cannot win and must negotiate, signalling harsh terms.
On the battlefield, Russia is advancing slowly at immense cost, while Ukraine’s forces are stretched, exhausted, and under relentless drone and missile attacks. Yet Ukraine is not collapsing. Key positions still hold, and Russian gains remain limited.
The coming months are critical. Europe must urgently step up weapons deliveries, air defences, and training. Ukraine’s survival — and Europe’s security — depend on it.
