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NATO commander says alliance is ready to fight if attacked

Associated Press reports that Gen. Alexus Grynkewich said NATO would respond to an attack with sensors, autonomous systems and military force, as European officials warn of covert Russian activity.

Updated Oct 13, 2026 · 02:07 UTC6 reports

The short version

  • NATO's top military commander, U.S. General Alexus Grynkewich, said in Warsaw that the alliance is ready to respond if attacked.[Associated Press]
  • Grynkewich said he does not view conflict with Russia as imminent or inevitable and urged preparation alongside open communication.[Associated Press]
  • European officials and intelligence services warn Russia may test NATO through covert attacks or a limited incursion, and Western officials blame Moscow for at least 211 incidents since its invasion of Ukraine.[Associated Press]
  • Denmark's defense intelligence service warned Russia could use such tactics to split the alliance and divert support from Ukraine.[Associated Press]

Key facts

  • Grynkewich said in Warsaw on Monday that NATO is ready to fight tonight if attacked.[Associated Press]
  • Grynkewich said he does not believe conflict with Russia is imminent or inevitable.[Associated Press]
  • Associated Press tracks at least 211 incidents that Western officials have blamed on Russia since its invasion of Ukraine.[Associated Press]
  • European nations have recently faced covert Russian activity, including an arson attack on an Estonian defense company and a failed attempt to attack a Ukrainian aircraft at a German airport.[Associated Press]
  • British officials said they thwarted a Russian plot to target a drone facility outside London.[Associated Press]
  • Denmark's defense intelligence service warned Russia could use such tactics to split the NATO alliance.[Associated Press]

What remains uncertain

  • The reporting does not confirm that Russia is planning a test or limited incursion; the warnings describe possible plans and give no timeline.[Associated Press]
  • Attributions of the incidents to Moscow come from Western and Estonian officials, and the reporting does not independently confirm them.[Associated Press]

Sources

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.