Pence said the NATO country could be the next target if Russia wins in Ukraine

Former US Vice President during Donald Trump's first term, Mike Pence, said that the defeat of Ukraine would be a direct threat to NATO countries, as the Kremlin would inevitably try to expand military aggression, The Independent reports .

Thus, in an interview with the Newsnight programme, Pence stressed that if Moscow crosses the Alliance's borders, the United States and allies will be forced to "confront Putin militarily". According to him, Washington's role in confronting Russian aggression would be supportive, while European allies would be on the front line.

Pence emphasised that such a scenario is possible if Russia manages to seize Ukraine. And this, in turn, will become possible if European countries stop supporting Ukraine.

At the same time, the politician praised the "Coalition of the Resolute" for developing security guarantees for Ukraine. He noted that these initiatives not only strengthen the conditions for future peace, but will also force the Kremlin to reckon with the West's determination.

The U.S. official noted that he has had meetings with Kremlin dictator Vladimir Putin. And when the Russian leader now talks about alleged readiness for a ceasefire and truce, he doesn't believe him.

I believe that Putin does not want peace. He only wants to take over Ukraine and will only respond to strength and unity," Pence said.

He also added that the US and European countries should increase sanctions pressure on Russia.