Russia may be ready for new conflict within year after Ukraine war ends - Dutch intelligence

This was stated by Vice Admiral Peter Reesink, director of the Dutch military intelligence agency (MIVD), in an interview with Politico.

According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, Russia's defense spending reached about $149 billion in 2024, a 38% increase compared to 2023 and double the amount from 2015.

"Russia is producing much more artillery, also with help from other countries, than they need for the war with Ukraine," Riesink said.

He also noted that Russia is moving artillery to the borders with the Baltic States and Finland.

"That's an indication for us that they are building up capabilities," the intelligence officer said.

In his opinion, as soon as a settlement is reached with Ukraine, Russia could be ready for a new conflict within a year, provided its military production remains unchanged.

"The Netherlands, like the rest of NATO countries, is in a phase of enhanced readiness program to make sure that we're ready if that occurs," Reesink said.

He also mentioned that most ministries in the country are facing budget cuts, except for the defense ministry. The intelligence officer emphasized that the country must prepare for a possible attack.

"We were a little bit reluctant over the past 20, 30 years, I must admit, but now that awareness is back again," Reesink concluded.

• In March, Finnish intelligence suggested that Russia might attack the country once the war in Ukraine is over.