The head of NATO has warned that Russia may attack a member state within the next five years, citing a growing covert campaign against Western societies.

"Russia is intensifying its covert campaign against our society. We must prepare for the kind of war our grandparents or great-grandparents fought," NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said in a speech delivered in Germany.

Rutte’s comments align with assessments from Western intelligence agencies, which have repeatedly expressed concern over Russia’s military posture—claims Moscow has denied.

The warning comes as US President Donald Trump continues efforts to halt the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, which began in February 2022. Earlier this month, Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that Russia had no plans to engage in war with Europe, but added that Moscow would act if Europe instigated conflict.

Despite similar assurances in 2022, Russia deployed 200,000 troops and launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Putin also accused European nations of undermining US-led peace efforts by altering an initial draft perceived as favourable to Russia.

NATO’s secretary general dismissed Putin’s statements as insincere, highlighting continued mistrust between the alliance and Moscow.