2017: War With Russia – Shirreff Richard

Admiral James G. Stavridis, former Supreme Allied Commander Europe, warns that failing to read this book comes at our peril. Closely modelled on Richard Shirreff’s NATO experience of war-gaming future conflicts, 2017: War with Russia presents a chilling account of where events may lead if the threat posed by the Russian president is not recognised. Written by the recently retired Deputy Supreme Allied Commander Europe and endorsed by senior military figures, it describes how war with Russia could erupt with bloodiest and most appalling consequences unless urgent steps are taken. The book examines Putin’s belief that Russia is being contained, his determination to preserve his reputation for strength, and the lethal dynamic that could lead to an invasion of the Baltic states. It presents Russia’s seizure of Georgia in 2008 as a warning ignored, Crimea in 2014 as another moment when the president got away with it, and the invasion of Ukraine as a sign that the Baltics could be next. General Sir Richard Shirreff also explains why nuclear deterrence may not be enough to protect Europe.