The Return of Great Powers: Russia, China, and the Next World War

by Jim Sciutto

there is before Ukraine and after Ukraine, in terms of operations and outlook. On board the Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, the Ukraine invasion remains a clear turning point. “The attack on Ukraine really changed the mindset in all of Europe,” Marx told me. “People realize the way the Russians are fighting the war in Ukraine—not caring about their own people.” “After the attack on Ukraine, our chief of the navy ordered that everyone who is available goes out and shows the readiness of the German Navy,” Marx told me. “And this was similar to all the other navies during that time. And quickly they were more than two hundred ships available sailing around, indicating that the alliance is ready and can do any defense job that’s required. And I think this was also a very strong signal towards the opponent: ‘Do not even dare.’ ” “Do not even dare”—his words struck me. The task force’s designation Very High Readiness has meaning. Implemented by NATO immediately following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, it means this task force is ready to act in any mission at any moment.