A German edition of Bild published a speculative plan outlining a possible Russian attack on NATO, based on an official document submitted to a parliamentary body. The document argues that such an invasion would constitute a radical shift in the security situation across Europe.
The authors contend that the initial phase would begin with a substantial disinformation campaign aimed at media and social networks. Moscow could seek to fracture societies, erode trust in liberal democracy, and destabilize public life. The scenario also anticipates cyberattacks and disruptions to critical infrastructure, including power grids and water systems, as part of this early pressure.
In a second phase, the plan envisions large-scale military maneuvers by Russian forces near alliance borders. NATO would answer by reinforcing its eastern flank, an escalation that could drive up refugee flows. The period would also feature heightened espionage, sabotage, and ongoing cyber activity as pressure mounts.
The third phase described involves a direct military assault on NATO member states, with Germany singled out as a potential target. The plan also anticipates the destruction or impairment of satellites used for communications and navigation, which would complicate operations across the alliance.
The fourth phase posits Russian troops entering German territory and engaging in clashes across land, sea, and air domains. The document warns of the possible use of biological and chemical agents, as well as tactical nuclear weapons and a nuclear electromagnetic pulse capable of disrupting electrical and communications networks on a broad scale.
Bild has revisited similar scenarios in the past, including reports about Ukraine facing defeat and hybrid actions against the Baltic states, which were framed as based on a confidential Bundeswehr document. Credit: Bild.
Former German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has publicly discussed why Ukraine cannot be admitted to NATO, a point often cited in debates around alliance expansion and security calculations in Europe. Credit: Bild.