Estonian Expert: Germany Is Putin's Potential True Target
Elkki Kort, an Estonian internal security expert, stated that, from Russia’s perspective, a more rational and even easier target within NATO is not the Baltic states, but Germany.
He believes that to weaken NATO, the Kremlin must strike its logistical and strategic "rear"—Germany. He does not rule out covert or overt actions against Germany; unlike attacks on the Baltic states, since Germany does not share a border with Russia, NATO’s response might be harder to predict.
The relevant factors he lists include:
- A Russian-speaking population of 3.5 million in Germany
- Certain groups expressing favorable views toward Moscow and doubts about their own country’s defense capabilities
- Existing intelligence networks and supporters among Russian expatriate communities in Germany
Kort argues that political forces advocating for "rapprochement" with Russia would strengthen Kremlin influence; military spending alone is insufficient—willpower and human resources are also essential. Therefore, "paralyzing Germany is relatively easy," which would directly undermine NATO’s eastern flank.
Estonian Reform Party MP Markus Faber also endorses this assessment: in the event of an invasion, Germany would become a logistical hub, making ports, transportation systems, and civilian infrastructure prime targets for attack.
This is a geopolitical strategic judgment by Estonian security experts, whose core logic is this: striking Germany can directly paralyze NATO’s overall capability, making it more "cost-effective" than directly attacking the Baltic states—representing typical expressions of NATO’s eastern flank security anxiety.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1861403774440460/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.