Russia signals readiness amid tense diplomacy
President Vladimir Putin declared in Moscow that while Russia does not seek a war with Europe, it is fully prepared if European countries choose to initiate one. He stated that if Europe “starts” a war, Russia is “ready right now,” warning that such a conflict would be resolved so swiftly that there might “be no one left to negotiate with.” His remarks came during a press briefing ahead of ongoing discussions related to the conflict in Ukraine.
Accusations that Europe is blocking peace efforts
Putin used the occasion to criticize several European governments for what he described as obstructing recent peace proposals. He argued that their amendments to a U.S.-led plan were “unacceptable” and effectively removed Europe from the negotiation table. According to him, many European states “do not want peace” and instead position themselves on the side of escalation, undermining diplomatic attempts to end the war.
Implications for European security and global diplomacy
The warning marks one of Putin’s most direct messages to European governments since the escalation of the conflict. By framing Europe as a potential aggressor while stressing Russia’s readiness, Moscow appears to be issuing a deterrent message aimed at limiting further European involvement. The statement also adds strain to already fragile peace efforts, raising concerns that the diplomatic process may become even more difficult if rhetoric continues to harden on both sides.
