Russian President Vladimir Putin has said Moscow is not preparing for “any kind” of conflict with Europe, as concerns persist among some European NATO members over the possibility of Russian attacks on alliance territory.
Putin made the statement on Friday while speaking to reporters in Saint Petersburg, rejecting suggestions that Russia is preparing for hostilities with European countries.
“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 said.
“I want to emphasise once again: we are not preparing for any kind of hostilities with Europe,” he added.
The Russian leader also criticised European countries that have suggested Moscow could escalate tensions, arguing that Russia has “no real motive” to do so.
His comments come amid growing security concerns in parts of Europe over the potential for covert Russian operations or attacks as the war in Ukraine continues.
Several European countries supporting Ukraine have raised concerns about possible Russian actions on their territory.
Earlier this month, Germany accused Moscow of planning a drone attack at Leipzig airport in August, while Poland has warned of the possibility of Russian drone and missile attacks against countries supporting Ukraine.
Moscow has rejected accusations of preparing for a wider conflict with Europe, while European governments have continued to assess potential security threats linked to the war in Ukraine.
Meanwhile, Putin said Russia was considering its position on whether to resume peace negotiations with Ukraine following recent Ukrainian attacks on Russian territory.
He said proposals to restart negotiations remained under consideration but suggested that Russia would carefully assess its next steps in response to the attacks.
“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.
Putin’s remarks therefore combine a denial of preparations for conflict with Europe with a cautious indication that the possibility of renewed negotiations with Ukraine has not been completely ruled out.
The comments come as European governments continue to monitor the wider security implications of the Ukraine war and the possibility of further escalation beyond the battlefield.