Urges NATO allies to prepare in case Russia attacks

U.S. officials say NATO allies should train and invest as if Russia could attack sooner than expected, following intelligence leaks that suggest a limited assault on a member country—such as a land incursion or cyberattack—could occur within the next few years. Speaking in Brussels at NATO headquarters, U.S. Ambassador to NATO Matt Whitaker said allies cannot predict an adversary’s moves but must be prepared to deter them and, if needed, respond quickly. He declined to comment directly on the leaked information. The remarks came alongside concerns about U.S. weapons shortages and NATO’s defense spending plans. Allies agreed last year to spend 5% of GDP on defense by 2035, with at least 3.5% for military spending.