Kremlin and Beijing brace for confrontation with US; Polish general warns of critical moment

A Polish general, Gen. Pacek, asserts that Russia's actions leave the West no choice but to prepare for conflict, framing the current period as a critical moment for the world. The statement reflects heightened alarm in Eastern Europe over perceived Russia-China alignment against the US, though it is an opinion piece rather than a confirmed policy shift. The significance lies in the rhetorical escalation and its potential to influence NATO posture and market sentiment.