Russia poses a threat, but there is no need to dramatize the situation – resilience and preparedness are essential, NATO Supreme Allied Commander Europe, General Alexus Grynkewich, told journalists during his visit to Latvia.
Speaking about the risk of war with Russia and what residents of the Baltic states should prepare for, the general noted that Russia’s actions in Ukraine demonstrate its willingness to use violence and war to achieve its political objectives. He described the violence as unimaginable and, echoing US President Donald Trump, stressed that the war must end.
Grynkewich welcomed initiatives by various governments to strengthen societal resilience. He emphasized that Latvia and other countries on NATO’s eastern flank have valuable experience from which allies can learn when it comes to strengthening the resilience of populations and institutions.
The general stressed that resilience must be built now, before it becomes necessary. Referring to Trump’s principle of “peace through strength,” he argued that being strong and preparing for conflict could help prevent it from happening in the first place.
Asked about NATO’s most urgent needs in defending the Baltic states, Grynkewich first emphasized that the alliance is already prepared to confront existing threats. At the same time, he acknowledged that NATO is constantly seeking ways to improve its capabilities.
Given the rapid pace of innovation on the battlefield, the alliance must continuously introduce new solutions to stay ahead of developments emerging from the war in Ukraine and the conflict in the Middle East, the general explained.
Grynkewich highlighted that his current focus is primarily on data and the algorithms used to interpret it. He stressed the need for a data architecture capable of integrating information collected by sensors and providing a comprehensive picture of the battlefield, airspace and ground maneuver areas along NATO’s eastern flank, enabling a more effective response to potential threats.
According to the general, such capabilities would make military operations more effective and support the implementation of the “theory of victory” he outlined in Warsaw. For this reason, he would initially prioritize the development of data architecture.
According to information published on NATO’s official website, the Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR) is responsible for the strategic-level command of all NATO military operations and leads Allied Command Operations.
SACEUR’s responsibilities include planning military operations, identifying the forces required and requesting their deployment from member states in accordance with the authorization of the North Atlantic Council and the guidance of NATO’s Military Committee.
In the event of aggression against a NATO member state, SACEUR is responsible for implementing all military measures within his capabilities and authority to preserve or restore the security of alliance territory. He also provides NATO’s political and military bodies with advice on military matters that could affect his ability to fulfill his responsibilities.
Grynkewich has served as NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander Europe since July 2025.