“Russia is probing us every day” – Commander JFCBS addresses Berlin Security Conference

Brunssum, The Netherlands – In a video-transmitted key note address to the Berlin Security Conference (BSC) from 18 to 19 May, Commander Allied Joint Force Command Brunssum (JFCBS), General Jörg Vollmer, described the operational challenges for NATO’s forces in Northern Europe. “Russia is probing us every day. Credible deterrence is based on deployable forces of high readiness”, he emphasized.

The General pointed in particular to direct and indirect threats caused by recent troop deployments close to the Ukrainian borders and in Crimea. He also mentioned hybrid threats like cyberattacks, attempts to influence elections and the poisoning of opposition figures. “Credible deterrence means vigilance, adaptation and responsiveness”, Vollmer said. He also underlined that NATO has to be capable of conducting speedy deployments in order to out-manoeuver external threats.

“Effective defence means sustainable joint operations. It must be executable. This needs proper planning, command and coordination already in peacetime and in crisis as well. Security through responsibility is a task we all take very serious”, the JFCBS commander concluded.

Story by Allied Joint Force Command Brunssum Public Affairs Office