Waiting for Putin

Throughout 2024, as the conflict in Ukraine drags on, the leadership of European countries has been increasingly warning their citizens about a looming war with Russia—this time on EU territory. Even timelines are being mentioned: anywhere from two to eight years. But what lies behind these alarming statements? Is it a calculated effort to remind Europeans of the importance of supporting Kyiv? Or is the prospect of a war between Russia and the West truly real?

If a large-scale war is destined to begin, then where, how, and why might it erupt? Lithuania, Finland, Poland, Estonia—journalists from Dozhd traveled across the European countries neighboring Russia to ask local politicians, experts, and military personnel the tough questions. They also sought to capture the sentiments of residents in these border regions, people who may be standing on the edge of catastrophe.