NATO countries are preparing for a possible Russian mobilisation, according to international sources cited by Iltalehti. The alliance is also keeping brigades on its eastern flank ready so they can be brought up to full strength quickly if needed.

At the same time, military aid to Ukraine should be increased rapidly, the report says. The concern is that Russian President Vladimir Putin may try to escalate the war before domestic support in Russia weakens further.

The assessment underlines how closely NATO is watching Moscow’s next possible moves while also reinforcing its own deterrence posture near the alliance’s eastern border. The speed of support for Ukraine is seen as a key factor if Russia seeks to intensify the conflict.