The Chair of the NATO Military Committee, Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone, stated that the Russian-Ukrainian war remains "brutal" and noted the deepening of existing crises as well as the emergence of new ones, saying that "we are not in calm seas, we are in a storm," UNN reports, citing Anadolu.
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Dragone made these statements at the opening of the NATO Chiefs of Defense meeting at the headquarters in Brussels, where they met to assess the Alliance's defense, deterrence, innovation, and adaptation capabilities.
Speaking at the opening of the meeting, Dragone emphasized that NATO continues to remain "in a state of 24/7 readiness" on all fronts, from the east to the south, and from the High North to the Arctic.
Since the last meeting of the NATO Chiefs of Defense in January, Dragone stated that existing crises have deepened and new ones have emerged, warning: "We are not in calm waters; we are in the middle of a storm."
Dragone recalled that the Russian-Ukrainian war is entering its 5th year, stating that it remains "brutal, with severe consequences and directly linked to the security of Alliance members."
He also drew attention to the persistent instability and violence in NATO's southern neighborhood, noting that trade routes remain under pressure and energy flows remain volatile.
Emphasizing the constant presence of hybrid threats, Dragone stated: "This is a time for clarity, discipline, and action. We have recently been tested and shown that we can defend ourselves. Our deterrence capability and readiness have strengthened. Our situational awareness has become even sharper."
Dragone noted that simply acting quickly is no longer enough, and that more precise decisions must be made while maintaining coordination, unity, and strategic direction.
The Chiefs of Defense of NATO member countries meet twice a year to shape the Alliance's military strategies.
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