Putin Warns Europe: “If They Choose War, Russia Is Ready”
Speaking at a Moscow investment forum, Russian President Vladimir Putin accused European governments of siding with war and declared that Russia is prepared if Europe decides to escalate the conflict.
Russian President Vladimir Putin delivered a sharp warning to European capitals during his speech at an investment forum in Moscow, stating that Europe no longer pursues a peaceful agenda and has aligned itself with conflict. Putin argued that Western military support for Ukraine has already made Europe a direct party to the war.
Putin: “There may be no one left to negotiate with”
Putin claimed that if Europe were to initiate a confrontation, the situation could deteriorate rapidly. He warned that in such a scenario, Russia might soon face a landscape where “there is simply no one left to negotiate with.” He also criticized what he described as Europe’s “illusion” of imposing a strategic defeat on Russia.
Kremlin insists talks will only be held with Washington
The Russian president reiterated that European proposals for ending the war are not acceptable to Moscow. He emphasized that the Kremlin will engage only with the United States, accusing European leaders of obstructing Washington and President Donald Trump in efforts to reach a negotiated settlement.
Moscow also reaffirmed its refusal to hold talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
German officials warn of possible Russian threat by 2029
Across Europe, concerns are rising over Russia’s long-term intentions. According to Germany’s Foreign Ministry, new intelligence assessments indicate that Moscow is preparing the option of launching a future attack on NATO by 2029. Officials stressed the need for strong deterrence measures in coordination with allies.
Drone incursions and sabotage heighten tensions
Multiple European countries have recently reported suspected Russia-linked hybrid attacks, including cyber intrusions, sabotage attempts and drone violations of NATO airspace. Unidentified drones forced temporary airport closures in Baltic and Eastern European nations, as well as in Germany and Belgium. Russian fighter jets have also breached Estonian airspace.
EU Defence Commissioner Andrius Kubilius said these incidents expose major gaps in Europe’s detection and defence capabilities, warning that current preparations fall short of what modern warfare demands.
