Russia remains to be accute threat to Europe despite diminished military capabilities Pentagon officials discuss Russian invasion of Ukraine

Celeste Wallander, the US assistant secretary of defense for international security affairs, and Army General Christopher Cavoli, the commander of US European Command, discussed the Russian invasion, problems for Europe emanating from China, and other security matters during their testimony before the panel. 

"For over a year, this war has threatened Ukraine, the security of Europe, the global economy, and the rules-based international order," Wallander said, per Pentagon's press service. "Yet, thanks to the courage of the Ukrainian people, supported by the United States and a broad coalition of allies and partners from around the world, Russia has failed to achieve its objectives, and independent Ukraine endures." 

Russian President Vladimir Putin's invasion had the unintended result of strengthening the bonds in Europe and especially in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, Wallander said. She noted that the Russian invasion pushed Finland and Sweden to petition to join NATO. Finland became an official member state last month, and Wallander hopes Sweden soon will become the 32nd nation in the alliance.  

The contention around the world is that Russia cannot be allowed to invade and destroy its neighbor Ukraine. "Our goal is a free, prosperous, and democratic Ukraine able to defend its sovereignty and deter further aggression," she said.  

The United States has committed more than $36 billion in security assistance to Ukraine including artillery, air defense, and armor, Wallander said. "The substantial commitment of the US military assistance to Ukraine reflects the American interests and values at stake," she said. "As Secretary [of Defense Lloyd] Austin [III] has said, our support for Ukraine self-defense is an investment in our own security and prosperity." 

Allies and partners have also contributed with more than $20 billion in aid coming from over 50 nations. "Ukraine has leveraged this assistance to deal Russia's significant blows on the battlefield," she said. "Although Russia's conventional military capabilities are diminished, Russia continues to present serious risk as it retains capabilities in nuclear cyber information operations, counter space and undersea warfare among others. These capabilities combined with Russia's intent to undermine the independence of its neighbors, and [its] will use force, means that Russia remains an acute threat."