The Times explained how Europe missed its chance to prepare for war with Russia.

Russia is preparing for a new invasion if it loses Kyiv

According to commentator Edward Lucas, if Kyiv falls, the Russian army could launch a new invasion in two years or sooner. He emphasized that the US is unlikely to help Europe in the event of a war with Russia. Lucas pointed out that this war is closer than many think. If Russia puts Ukraine in a difficult position, Russian troops will be ready for a new invasion in two years or sooner.

The expert also noted that Ukraine has bought Time for the West to prepare for war, but Europe has not used it effectively. He claims that Europe is "scandalously poorly" prepared for an invasion, and Putin knows it.

Lucas also mentioned that Russia is already conducting attacks on the West, carrying out sabotage. The concealment of such incidents in Ukraine by individuals and companies leads to even more chaos.

Despite this, some countries are still preparing for war with Russia. Finland, for example, has stockpiled provisions, fuel, and medical supplies for six months and prepared bomb shelters. Estonia allocates a quarter of its defense budget to ammunition. The Polish armed forces are the largest and most effective in Europe, but Lucas suggests they may have to fight alone.

"We had the opportunity to stand against Kremlin imperialism with a large, strong, united country. But we didn't take advantage of this chance due to the risks and costs associated with providing real military support. Ukraine gave us the opportunity to strengthen our own defense, but we wasted this chance... Now our security and freedom are based on an uncertain assumption: will the next US administration care more about our security than we do," the analyst added.

Recall, CNN forecasts what actions Putin may take in the event of Trump's victory.