Janice R. Andrews
Vladimir Putin may focus on Africa or the Middle East to retaliate against U.S. and European backing of Ukraine, says security expert Nicholas Drummond. The strategy could involve exploiting natural resources and weakening Western influence in these regions.
This comes after the U.S. and U.K. gave Ukraine the green light to use long-range missiles on Russian territory. In response, Moscow launched a medium-range intercontinental ballistic missile into Ukraine, marking an escalation in the conflict.
Drummond told The Daily Express that Putin is determined to restore Russia’s status as a global superpower. “Putin wants payback for Europe’s support of Ukraine and will escalate efforts in the grey zone,” he said.
The expert also warned that Europe might face greater threats if Russia succeeds in Ukraine, with the possibility of attacks on nearby regions. While he doesn’t believe Putin will target the Baltic states, he acknowledged that doing so could trigger a NATO response under Article 5, significantly escalating tensions.
As the war in Ukraine intensifies, Putin’s potential focus on Africa and the Middle East signals a shift in Russia’s global strategy, presenting a growing challenge to Western nations.
