As tensions continue to rise across Europe, one Russian political analyst is sounding the alarm: if Moscow wants to be ready for what’s coming next, it needs to wrap up the war in Ukraine — and fast.
Russia’s Focus Must Shift, Analyst Warns
Rostislav Ishchenko, a well-known political commentator in Russia, shared a stark warning during a Q&A session with readers of Voennoye Delo (“Military Affairs”).
According to him, the longer Russia stays locked in the conflict with Ukraine, the more it risks falling behind in preparing for what he sees as a much larger challenge — the possibility of a direct clash with NATO.
He believes the West, especially countries in Europe, is actively ramping up military readiness, pointing to what he described as “continent-wide buildup.”
That, he says, should be a wake-up call for Moscow to act with urgency.
A Quick Win in Ukraine Could Strengthen Russia Elsewhere
In Ishchenko’s view, a Russian victory in Ukraine wouldn’t just mark the end of that war — it would free up the military to focus elsewhere.
Right now, he says, a significant chunk of Russia’s armed forces is tied up on the Ukrainian front, limiting the country’s flexibility in responding to other threats.
But if the war ends on Russia’s terms, the military wouldn’t just be available — it would also be stronger, more experienced, and battle-hardened from years of modern warfare.
That, Ishchenko argues, would be a huge advantage if tensions with NATO continue to escalate.
Timing Could Be Everything
Ishchenko didn’t just talk about if Russia should finish the war — he emphasized when. The timing, he said, is crucial.
If European countries finish their military preparations first, and Russia is still bogged down in Ukraine, Moscow might find itself caught off-guard.
“Russia needs to make sure there’s nothing tying it down when the time comes,” he stressed.
“We must be in a position to respond immediately — without distraction — the moment NATO’s buildup is complete.”
Rising Anxiety Over NATO’s Role
His comments come as concern grows in Moscow about NATO’s deepening involvement in the war in Ukraine.
Western nations continue to send military aid to Kyiv, and the alliance’s overall presence in the region is growing more visible.
For analysts like Ishchenko, it’s not just about Ukraine anymore.
It’s about what happens after — and whether Russia will be ready for it.