Russian president signals readiness amid Ukraine talks
In Moscow, President Vladimir Putin declared that while Russia does not desire a war with European nations, it is prepared to respond instantly if Europe were to initiate hostilities. He cautioned that any such conflict would be resolved so quickly that “there would be no one left to negotiate with,” highlighting the seriousness of his warning as peace negotiations over the Ukraine war remain stalled.
Europe accused of obstructing diplomacy
Putin criticized certain European governments for disrupting diplomatic efforts, arguing that their proposed revisions to a U.S.-backed peace plan were unacceptable to Russia. He suggested that these actions effectively excluded Europe from meaningful negotiation, claiming that some countries had abandoned cooperative engagement in favor of positions that escalate tensions.
Implications for European security and negotiations
The message serves as a strong deterrent to European involvement in the conflict, emphasizing Moscow’s capability and readiness to respond immediately. At the same time, the warning increases uncertainty around ongoing peace talks, signaling that rising rhetoric could further complicate efforts to achieve a diplomatic resolution and leaving questions about the future of negotiations.
