Russia’s Top Soldier Issues Threat Over Missile Defense

Russia’s top military officer threatened that if the United States builds nato missile defense facilities in Eastern Europe, Russia will destroy them with a preemptive strike.

Chief of General Staff Nikolai Makarov said on May 3 that “if the situation worsens,” the Russian military will “use destructive force preemptively.” He went on to say that if Moscow and Washington fail to reach an agreement, Russia will “be forced to take military and technological measures” to protect itself.

Last year, Russian President Dmitry Medvedev made a similar threat, stating that Russia will retaliate militarily if Moscow fails to reach an agreement with the U.S. and nato.

The U.S. says the missile defense system is intended only to counter Iran’s missile threat. Moscow rejects this claim and says that the shield could negate Russia’s nuclear deterrent.

As Russia’s desire to rebuild its former Soviet glory intensifies, so does its saber rattling and its actual military capabilities. Trumpet editor in chief Gerald Flurry has said that Russia’s resurgence is significant mostly because it will prod Europe to unify more quickly. Mr. Flurry said Russia’s “power will be able to challenge Europe when no one else can,” and added that Russia’s rise “strikes intense fear in Europe.” As Moscow’s military might expands and its threats intensify, Russia’s European neighbors will take note and consolidate their power.