Moscow issues tough message amid Ukraine peace talks
President Vladimir Putin told reporters in Moscow that Russia does not aim to start a war with European countries, but is prepared to act immediately should hostilities arise. He cautioned that any conflict initiated by Europe would be resolved so rapidly that “there would be no one left to negotiate with,” signaling the seriousness of the warning as diplomatic negotiations over the Ukraine crisis continue to face obstacles.
European powers blamed for obstructing diplomacy
Putin accused multiple European governments of impeding peace efforts, claiming their proposed amendments to a U.S.-backed settlement plan were unacceptable to Russia. He argued that these moves effectively removed Europe from meaningful talks and suggested that some nations have shifted away from cooperation toward stoking tensions, undermining the prospects for a negotiated resolution.
Heightened rhetoric complicates peace efforts
The warning underscores Moscow’s intent to deter further European involvement in the conflict by emphasizing Russia’s readiness to act instantly. At the same time, it adds pressure to fragile diplomatic negotiations, raising concerns that escalating statements could make reaching a peaceful settlement more challenging and create additional uncertainty in the ongoing peace process.
