NATO general warns of resilient Russian military threat
American General Christopher Cavoli, the Commander of NATO's Allied Forces in Europe, discussed the losses the Russians have sustained during the war in Ukraine. According to the military officer, these losses are significant. However, despite this, the Kremlin still possesses "dangerous combat forces," as he mentioned in an interview with the Atlantic Council.
Estimates from Western intelligence suggest that approximately 600,000 Russian soldiers have been killed or wounded in Ukraine. However, General Christopher Cavoli believes that "the Russian military operating in Ukraine and the strikes they deliver there should be viewed in the context of their entire structure."
The Russian army remains significant
Despite the losses suffered by ground forces, which the Kremlin is still rebuilding, Russia "still has dangerous combat forces that were barely affected by the conflict." This primarily refers to strategic missile forces, long-range aviation, and submarine capabilities. Moreover, most of Russia's tactical aviation has not yet been involved in the conflict.
"Thus, although the ground forces have incurred significant losses, the rest of Russia's military structure still holds a considerable amount of potential—both conventional and nuclear—and this must be kept in mind," General Christopher Cavoli warned.
During the interview, the military officer also mentioned Russian issues with the quality of military equipment, and the fact that some of it is outdated. Another problem for the Russians is corruption, which affects army training. Despite these challenges, Russia plans to rebuild its ground forces and deploy them along the NATO border. As General Cavoli noted, "This is a plan they have already implemented and talked about. We have to take it seriously."
The Defense Romania portal refers to another interview with General Cavoli, which he gave to Germany's Der Spiegel. During that conversation, the military officer said that regardless of the outcome of the war in Ukraine, the Russian army would emerge stronger after the conflict than it is now. Therefore, it cannot be underestimated. "The Russian army is learning, improving, and utilizing its wartime experiences," the general added.
