Moscow signals determination amid Ukraine negotiations
President Vladimir Putin told reporters in Moscow that Russia does not wish to provoke conflict with European nations, but emphasized that it is fully prepared to respond if hostilities are initiated. He warned that any European-led war would be resolved so swiftly that “there would be no one left to negotiate with,” underscoring the gravity of his remarks as diplomatic efforts over the Ukraine war face ongoing difficulties.
Europe blamed for complicating peace efforts
Putin criticized several European governments for obstructing progress on diplomatic solutions, arguing that their proposed changes to a U.S.-backed peace plan were unacceptable to Russia. He suggested that these proposals effectively excluded Europe from meaningful talks and claimed that some countries have shifted from cooperation to positions that intensify tensions, hampering efforts to reach a resolution.
Implications for regional security and diplomacy
The statement serves as a clear warning to European powers, highlighting Moscow’s readiness to respond immediately and deterring further involvement in the Ukraine conflict. At the same time, the remarks increase uncertainty in ongoing peace negotiations, raising concerns that rising rhetoric could further complicate the path toward a diplomatic settlement and make successful negotiations more difficult.
