Is NATO ready to fight? The Ukraine war is raising doubts among military analysts

Ukrainian service members from the special police Brigade Hyzhak (Predator) prepare to launch a Blyskavka (Lightning) strike drone toward Russian troops, near the frontline in Donetsk region, Ukraine, on Sept. 10. | REUTERS

REUTERS

Sep 18, 2026

Kyiv – Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine has killed hundreds of thousands of people. It has also served as a proving ground for new weapons systems and raised an uncomfortable question for NATO: Is the alliance prepared for the next war it might have to fight?

Five Ukrainian and Western defense officials said developments on the battlefield are moving so quickly that some NATO weapons and tactics risk becoming outdated. While Ukraine — which is not an alliance member — adapts in weeks, NATO buys and develops systems over years, sometimes decades.

The Ukraine war and U.S. President Donald Trump’s haranguing of European allies have prompted many NATO members to dramatically increase their defense spending. The Pentagon is currently reviewing its military presence in European countries, which Trump has accused of sponging off U.S. protection and refusing to help prosecute his unpopular war against Iran.

In a time of both misinformation and too much information,
quality journalism is more crucial than ever.
By subscribing, you can help us get the story right.