This is reported by the British publication The Guardian, citing assessments from defense representatives made during a conference dedicated to the future of European military coordination. One of the main reasons for the pessimistic assessments is the insufficient moral readiness of European society for a protracted war. Defense officials believe that due to this, NATO will only be able to endure a relatively short conflict. One former British minister acknowledged during the discussion that Western countries have poorly explained the nature of this threat to the public. According to the British diplomat, politicians now have to convince voters, who are not ready for such changes, that social spending needs to be cut in order to increase defense funding. "The level of discussion was at a kindergarten level," the diplomat stated. The situation is further complicated by political instability in several European countries. The article mentions concerns that Russia is gradually achieving success in the so-called hybrid war, using public fears and economic problems to strengthen pro-Russian and populist forces. In this context, attention is drawn to the upcoming elections in Poland, France, and Italy. Most populist parties, such as Germany's Alternative for Germany, sympathize with Russia and advocate for ending support for Ukraine, reports the UNIAN news agency.
