Russian President Vladimir Putin stated late Thursday that Moscow remains open to any constructive measures aimed at repairing ties with European nations, while issuing a stark warning that a broader conflict would leave behind no victors.
Speaking to journalists following a summit with African leaders in Moscow, Putin addressed his recent telephone discussions with Finnish President Alexander Stubb and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere. He defended the two Nordic leaders for initiating contact despite facing criticism from other European capitals for breaking diplomatic ranks.
“We support any steps…we support any actions aimed at restoring full-fledged and complete relations with European countries,” Putin told reporters. He added that while Russia is prepared for a potential confrontation with Europe, it actively wishes to avoid one. “First of all, we are ready, but we want no war with Europe. And if anyone wants it, let them prepare, but right now they have not achieved their goal — to inflict a strategic defeat on Russia. And if things go too far, there will be no winners at all. Let no one forget that.”
Turning to regional maritime security, Putin emphasized that Moscow desires unobstructed navigation throughout the Baltic Sea. He cautioned that placing restrictions on communication and transit could mirror the disruptions seen in the Strait of Hormuz following the outbreak of the U.S.-Iranian conflict in February.
“Does someone want the same situation in the Baltic as in the Gulf or the Strait of Hormuz?” Putin asked. “I don’t know. We don’t want that, but we will respond to any challenge.”
