On December 3, 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin delivered a pointed message to European capitals, asserting that while Russia does not seek war with Europe, it stands ready to respond if conflict arises.
"If Europe suddenly decides to wage war against us and starts it, we are ready right now. There can be no doubt about that," Putin told reporters, underscoring Moscow's preparedness for direct confrontation.
He criticized European powers for excluding themselves from ongoing peace talks on Ukraine, saying that by cutting off diplomatic channels with Moscow, they have effectively removed themselves from any meaningful dialogue. This accusation comes as tensions over the Ukraine conflict continue to define relations between Russia and its western neighbors.
Putin's warning adds a new layer of uncertainty to an already fraught geopolitical landscape. Analysts say Europe and Russia are navigating a precarious balance, where communication breakdowns could escalate tensions rapidly.
As global eyes remain on the Ukraine crisis, this latest exchange highlights the stakes of diplomatic engagement. For Europe, maintaining open channels may be vital to avoiding the very war that Putin warns could erupt at any moment.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
