"We hope that this will never happen. But if Russia is stupid enough to attack us, then it will be an open war between Russia and NATO. This possible war will be different from the war we are seeing between Russia and Ukraine," Rite said.

“There will be differences for several reasons that I cannot describe in detail right now, so as not to give them an information advantage, but this war will be different,” Rite added.

Rite previously added that NATO's security risks have increased as Russia's new generation of missiles is capable of reaching European capitals within minutes. Drones, sabotage and damage to underwater infrastructure are already events that worry the Alliance.

"Given these challenges to our security, we see how crucial it is for the Alliance to work together. In the face of Russia's reckless and dangerous actions in violating our airspace, NATO's response must be firm and effective," Rite added.

It was previously reported that, according to analysts at the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), Russia has entered"phase zero" in preparing for war against NATO. It is noted that the appearance of the so-called"little green men" on the border with Estonia indicates the preparation of an informational and psychological bridgehead before a possible future conflict.

Republican Congressman Don Bacon has called Russia a threat to NATO. He said that “Russian dictator Vladimir Putin is a cornered rat who poses a threat because Putin is desperate.” Bacon also called on Estonia and other NATO members to be vigilant against Russia, adding that the Alliance must be ready to act now.