(MENAFN) Belgian Defense Minister Theo Francken issued a harsh caution to Russia on Monday, declaring that any missile attack on Brussels would provoke a firm and unified reaction from NATO.

"If (Russian President Vladimir) Putin launches a missile at Brussels, we will wipe Moscow off the map," Francken stated in an interview, underscoring the alliance’s principle of collective defense.

Francken dismissed skepticism surrounding the United States’ loyalty to NATO during the presidency of Donald Trump, remarking: "The bias against the American government is so great in Europe. Unbelievable...He literally said that America will continue to support its NATO allies one hundred percent. A cruise missile on Brussels? That's a no-brainer, whatever definition you use. Putin won't do that either," he noted.

Despite this reassurance, Francken cautioned against minimizing Russia’s military strength.

"The Russians have increased their (military) capabilities. Their war economy produces four times more ammunition than all of NATO combined. Europe doesn't even have a central command,” he pointed out.

He further underlined Russia’s difficulties in its ongoing conflict with Ukraine, emphasizing that, “because they're fighting against the entire West! The Ukrainians are fighting with our weapons, ammunition and money. Otherwise, they would have been overwhelmed long ago."

Looking toward the future, Francken also recognized the emerging possibility of a combined Russian-Chinese threat directed at Western nations.

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