Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday reiterated that Moscow does not seek a conflict with European nations but warned that Russia is prepared to fight if provoked.
“We do not want a war with Europe,” he said. “But if Europe wants a war, Russia is ready right now.”
Putin claimed that European governments are putting forward peace terms for Ukraine that Russia finds “absolutely unacceptable”, accusing them of blocking U.S.-led diplomatic efforts and lacking a “peaceful agenda.”
The remarks come amid heightened tension between Russia and NATO allies, who continue to impose sanctions and supply weapons to Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has previously warned that Putin is plotting a “big war” in Europe around 2029 or 2030.
Putin’s statement followed his comments last week dismissing fears that Moscow intends to attack Europe, after France announced new conscription measures. French President Emmanuel Macron defended the move, saying, “The only way to avoid danger is to prepare for it.”
Russia also rejected Europe’s latest 28-point peace proposal as its forces carried out new aerial strikes in Ukraine.
Separately, Putin issued a stark warning over Ukraine’s naval attacks on Russian and Russia-bound tankers in the Black Sea.
“The most radical solution is to cut Ukraine off from the sea, then piracy will be impossible in principle,” he said, vowing tougher action against Ukrainian facilities and foreign tankers aiding Kyiv.
Ukraine has stepped up drone and missile strikes on Russian Black Sea infrastructure, including attacks near Novorossiysk that have disrupted oil shipments. Moscow maintains it will defend what it calls the “realities on the ground,” territory held since its invasion in February 2022, including parts of southern and eastern Ukraine.
US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are currently in Moscow for talks aimed at finding common ground, but both sides remain far apart on core demands. The prospects for a breakthrough remain uncertain.
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