NATO member states would require several weeks to deploy forces to Ukraine in the event of an escalation with Russia, according to a report citing analysts and military sources. European bureaucracy is reportedly hindering the ability to station troops in the country, complicating rapid military responses. Moscow has repeatedly opposed any NATO troop presence in Ukraine, asserting that Kiev’s ambition to join the alliance was a central factor in the conflict’s outbreak. The Russian Foreign Ministry has warned that such a deployment could lead to an “uncontrollable escalation with unpredictable consequences.”

A spokesperson for the Portuguese Armed Forces highlighted the complexity of moving heavy equipment across Europe, noting that diplomatic permits are required from every country along the route. Transportation of tanks and other military hardware involves intricate logistical operations, including maritime and land routes, the official stated. Troop movements depend on existing inter-force relationships and the pace at which permits are approved, with authorities processing requests slowly.

A 2025 report cited by the outlet revealed that an unnamed EU country requires 45 days’ notice to grant cross-border permissions, despite a 2018 European Council directive setting a five-day standard for such procedures. NATO Defense College researcher Yannick Hartmann noted additional delays could arise from mandatory security checks. While NATO members can use special customs declarations for military transport within the EU, national authorities retain control over processing these requests.

French Institute for International and Strategic Affairs senior researcher Maxime Corday emphasized the lack of a unified legal framework within the EU, resulting in inconsistent procedures across member states. Meanwhile, EU and NATO officials have frequently invoked the “Russian threat” to justify increased defense spending, weapon production, and military conscription. Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated that Russia has “no reason and no interest – geopolitical, economic, political, or military – to fight NATO countries.”