US Northern Command Chief Calls Russia Adversary With Greatest Capabilities

Gen. Gregory Guillot says Russia poses the biggest threat to North America

Mar. 17, 2026 at 4:08pm

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The head of the US Northern Command, Gen. Gregory Guillot, stated in testimony before the Senate Armed Services Committee that Russia remains the greatest adversary of the United States, with the most advanced capabilities to threaten North America. Guillot cited Russia's deployment of intercontinental ballistic missiles, testing of the Sarmat ICBM, and expansion of non-nuclear capabilities like cruise missiles as key concerns.

Why it matters

Guillot's assessment of Russia as the top threat to the US and North America reflects ongoing tensions between the two countries, as well as Russia's continued military modernization and assertiveness on the global stage. This could have implications for US defense policy and strategy in the region.

The details

According to Guillot, Russia has deployed intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) and continues testing the Sarmat ICBM, which is capable of approaching the US. He also said Russia is expanding its non-nuclear capabilities, including conventionally armed cruise missiles, and allegedly deploying cruise missile launch platforms near North America. Guillot also claimed that China and Russia are advancing their strategic partnership to counter the US and its allies, citing joint air and maritime operations in the Arctic.

  • Guillot made these statements during a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing on March 17, 2026.

The players

Gen. Gregory Guillot

The commander of the US Northern Command, which is responsible for the defense of North America.

Russia

A country that Guillot identified as the greatest adversary of the United States, with advanced military capabilities that threaten North America.

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What they’re saying

“Russia remains the adversary with the greatest capability and capacity to threaten North America today.”

— Gen. Gregory Guillot, Commander, US Northern Command

The takeaway

Guillot's assessment of Russia as the top threat to the US and North America underscores the ongoing geopolitical tensions between the two countries, as well as the importance of US defense strategy and capabilities in the region.