### NATO Chief Says Russia Expands Hybrid Warfare Beyond Ukraine

During a visit to Berlin on Monday, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte emphasized that Russia's offensive is no longer confined to Ukraine, but now extends throughout allied territories. Speaking alongside German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Rutte outlined the broadening scope of Russia’s tactics, which include direct interference in democratic processes, industrial sabotage, and acts of violence.

"Russia is conducting an intensifying campaign of hybrid attacks across our allied territories," Rutte stated. "This shows that the frontline in this war is no longer solely in Ukraine. Increasingly, the frontline is moving beyond borders to the Baltic region, to Western Europe and even to the high north."

Rutte also highlighted the unsettling collaboration between Moscow and Pyongyang, describing the deployment of North Korean troops by Russia as a "significant escalation." He noted that China and Iran are also backing Moscow, further complicating the geopolitical landscape. To counter this, Rutte referenced NATO's ongoing cooperation with states in the Asia-Pacific region, such as South Korea and Japan.

Addressing the importance of international unity, particularly with the presidential race in the United States underway, Rutte expressed confidence that the new administration, regardless of the election outcome, would continue to support Europe. He warned against making the same isolationist mistakes made after the First World War.

In addition, Rutte reaffirmed Ukraine's trajectory towards NATO membership, even though Berlin has not yet endorsed a prompt formal invitation. "I'm absolutely convinced that one day Ukraine will be a member of NATO," he said, underscoring that foundational steps are currently being established for this future integration.