Vladimir Putin may goal 4 European international locations with a army invasion as soon as he’s achieved in Ukraine, an knowledgeable has instructed the Day by day Categorical.
Putin’s troops have been finishing up their unlawful full-scale invasion of Ukraine since February 2022.
However the Russian President has advised on a variety of events he has the ambition of restoring a Russian empire, which means different European nations may very well be subsequent on his hitlist.
Nicholas Drummond, a defence and safety knowledgeable, instructed the Day by day Categorical that the Baltic nations, Moldova, and even some territories in Africa may very well be focused by Russian forces.
Nevertheless, he believes this is not going to occur within the brief time period as Russia piles its assets into Ukraine.
He stated: “Putin is a harmful man, a really harmful man and he needs Russia to be a superpower once more.
“I do not suppose he’ll go for the Baltic states, however he may do. There are NATO troops within the Baltics so that might instantly spark an Article 5 occasion. This could dramatically escalate issues.
“Moldova, he would possibly strive one thing there. He can also determine to do one thing in Africa, seizing territory there or one thing like that.”
Moldovan politicians have expressed fears in recent times that Russia may try to seize management of Transnistria – a breakaway state internationally recognised as a part of Moldova the place the federal government has beforehand requested annexation by Russia.
Nevertheless, in March, Moldovan Overseas Minister Mihail Popșoi stated Russia is not more likely to assault “due to the sacrifice of the courageous Ukrainian individuals and the Ukrainian military.”
However, he added: “We’re protected, though protected may very well be a robust phrase given the frontlines are simply 200 kilometers away.”
In the meantime, the Baltic states urged their NATO allies earlier this 12 months to “get up” to the specter of future invasions.
Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania are instructing their residents the way to battle amid fears of a Russian assault.
One soldier known as Main Kapper despatched a warning to the Russians whereas speaking to Sky Information: “Will probably be a bloody mess in the event you come right here. We will certainly kill as lots of you as doable.”
Requested what he would inform different NATO allies, he stated: “To get up. It will not cease in Ukraine. If we do not cease them, then they’ll come additional and additional.”