The Russians are coming

There is much talk about Russia attacking Europe. This claim is repeated daily by politicians, military officials, and the media. Such claims are troubling in themselves—fabricated external threats are often used for domestic political purposes. What’s worse is that policy decisions are being made based on these claims. Concrete steps are being taken to prepare for a Russian attack: investments in armaments and military infrastructure, with Germany even raising its debt limit to fund these measures.

Here are key arguments why these claims lack logic:

1. What’s in it for Russia?

What could Russia gain from invading Europe? It is the world’s largest country, richest in natural resources, and needs neither territory nor raw materials. Russia is nearly self-sufficient in essential goods. While its economy depends on foreign trade (like all nations), the costs of occupation would far outweigh any gains.

Russia’s path to prosperity lies in selling resources and developing domestic production—which it is already doing.

2. How would this even work?

Despite Russia’s arms production advantage, invading the EU would mean a prolonged, unpredictable war. The risks are enormous, and with little to gain, why take such a gamble?

3. What about the aftermath?

Even if Russia invaded, what then? Occupation requires massive long-term troop deployments. Controlling parts of Ukraine (with ethnic Russian populations) is one thing—occupying hostile EU nations is entirely different.

4. Risk of World War

Attacking NATO members could trigger a nuclear-capable global conflict, which benefits no one, least of all Russia.

Conclusion

Claims of a Russian attack on Europe defy common sense. Why are they being pushed?

• Plausible explanation: A pretext to divert EU budgets to arms manufacturers and military contractors.
• Less likely: Collective psychosis (though possible, we find this improbable).

We won’t speculate further, but this rhetoric is dangerous. Basing real policy on such claims borders on insanity.