Not Preparing For Any Conflict With Europe’: Putin

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Friday that Moscow is not preparing for “any kind” of conflict with Europe, responding to warnings from some European NATO members about the possibility of Russian attacks on alliance territory.

Putin said Russia had “no real motive” to escalate tensions and criticised European countries for suggesting otherwise.

“Many in Europe talk about expecting an attack from Russia and therefore believe they must themselves prepare for hostilities, for a war with Russia,” Putin told reporters in Saint Petersburg.

“I want to emphasize once again: we are not preparing for any kind of hostilities with Europe,” he added.

Several European countries supporting Ukraine have raised concerns about possible covert Russian operations on their territory as the war in Ukraine enters its fifth year.

Earlier this month, Germany accused Moscow of planning a drone attack on Leipzig airport in August. Poland has also warned that Russia could target countries supporting Ukraine with drones and missiles.

Putin also said Moscow was considering its position on whether to resume peace talks with Ukraine following recent Ukrainian attacks on Russian territory.

Asked about proposals to restart negotiations, Putin said they remained possible but added that Russia would carefully consider its response to recent Ukrainian actions.

“On proposals to resume negotiations, yes, they are all on the table, and it is all possible — but after everything they’ve done, we will give careful thought to what steps we need to take in response,” Putin said.