US Intelligence Warns Putin May Test NATO With Limited Attack

U.S. intelligence reports suggest Russian President Vladimir Putin may test NATO's resolve with a limited attack in the coming years, according to The Wall Street Journal.

This assessment marks a shift from previous intelligence that indicated Putin would avoid provoking NATO while engaged in the war in Ukraine. The new intelligence raises the possibility of either a cyberattack or a small-scale ground incursion. Some reports suggest such a test could occur within weeks, or as early as this fall. U.S. officials fear Putin is plotting a small-scale land incursion to test the alliance amid weapons shortages and daily attacks on Russian territory.

Until now, U.S. intelligence believed Putin would not risk provoking NATO while fighting in Ukraine. The assessment has changed, with some reports indicating Russia could attack NATO before the end of the war in Ukraine. One report suggests Russia could send an armed group to occupy NATO territory within weeks. The Wall Street Journal reported that U.S. intel finds Putin could test NATO's resolve with a limited incursion.