MOSCOW: Russian President Vladimir Putin launched a sharp attack on European leaders on Thursday, accusing them of creating “war hysteria” and fabricating fears that Russia intends to attack NATO. While dismissing allegations that Moscow is waging war against the alliance, he thanked BRICS allies for their support of peace in Ukraine and warned that Russia would respond decisively to any provocation.
Putin categorically stated that fears of Russia attacking NATO were “inconceivable,” reminding reporters that Moscow had twice attempted to join the alliance but was rejected. “History has shown that weakness is unacceptable. If anyone tries to compete with us in the military sphere, let them try. Russia has proven more than once that we react quickly, and our response will be convincing,” Putin declared.
Citing recent remarks regarding Germany’s military buildup, Putin said Russia is closely monitoring Europe’s remilitarization. “For example, we hear from Germany that the German army will again be the strongest in Europe. Well, well, we are carefully listening, observing. What does that mean? I think no one doubts that Russia’s response will not be long in coming. The response to these threats, to put it mildly, will be very convincing.”
The Russian leader emphasized that Moscow has never initiated a military confrontation but stressed that it would not tolerate weakness or discrimination. “This has never been a situation where the provocateur did not end up poorly,” he warned.
Referring to the Ukraine conflict, Putin called it a “tragedy for Ukrainians and for all of us” and maintained that it could have been avoided, claiming the conflict would have been averted had Donald Trump been president. He also suggested some of the former US President’s initiatives on the Middle East offered a “light at the end of the tunnel.”
Putin alleged that Western elites are portraying Russia as an eternal enemy to distract their citizens from domestic problems. “They repeat this nonsense again and again that a war with Russia is imminent. Frankly, I want to say: Calm down, relax, focus on your own problems.” He further accused the West of using Ukrainians as “cannon fodder.”
Amid his combative rhetoric, Putin expressed gratitude to BRICS nations and allies for backing Moscow’s calls for peace, asserting that no single power can dictate terms to the world. “There is not and will not be a single power in the world that dictates to everyone what to do. Every power has its own limits.”
Meanwhile, the Kremlin confirmed that Putin is set to travel to India in December for the annual summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, his first visit since 2021. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated, “Yes, we have set the timeframe for the President’s visit to India. It will take place before the New Year begins. The preparations are complete.” The upcoming meeting will be the 23rd such dialogue, continuing the tradition of alternating annual summits between the two countries.
