NATO’s European Test: Ukraine, Russia and the Future of the Alliance

Has NATO reached a turning point? Cipher Brief Expert and Former senior British official Nick Fishwick joins The Cipher Brief to break down the biggest takeaways from the recent NATO Summit - and explain why Europe is preparing for a far more dangerous security environment than many Americans realize. Drawing on decades of experience in diplomacy and national security, Fishwick discusses President Trump's impact on the alliance, Europe's growing defense commitments, the possibility that Russian President Vladimir Putin could test NATO's resolve in the Baltics, and why today's conflicts are no longer defined by traditional declarations of war. The conversation also explores Russia's war in Ukraine, shifting battlefield momentum, the future of Western deterrence, and why governments, businesses, and citizens alike must prepare for an era of persistent geopolitical competition. If you want to understand how America's closest European allies are thinking about today's rapidly evolving threat landscape, this conversation is essential. Become a Cipher Brief Subscriber+ for exclusive conversations, expert analysis, and national security reporting from the world's leading intelligence and defense experts. https://www.thecipherbrief.com/subscr... Learn more about how to attend the 2026 Cipher Brief Threat Conference https://www.tcbconference.com Chapters 00:00 Introduction 00:40 Three Major Takeaways from the NATO Summit 03:30 Europe's Defense Wake-Up Call 06:00 Could Russia Test NATO in the Baltics? 09:45 Are Europeans Ready for a New Security Reality? 15:15 Has the Momentum Shifted in Ukraine? 21:15 The New Era of Endless Conflict 25:15 Why NATO Still Matters More Than Ever 28:35 Closing Thoughts #NATO #Ukraine #Russia #NickFishwick #NationalSecurity #Geopolitics #Europe #Trump #TheCipherBrief #ForeignPolicy #Intelligence #Defense