Moscow, Russia – Russian President Vladimir Putin pledged not to wage any new wars after the end of the conflict in Ukraine, provided that the West treats Russia
with sufficient “respect” and takes its security interests into account.
In this regard, Putin, during his annual “Direct Line” press conference,
considered talk of Moscow’s intention to attack European countries to be “pure nonsense” with no basis in reality.
Respecting interests in exchange for peace
In response to a question from a BBC correspondent about the possibility of launching new military operations,
Putin said: “There will be no operations if we are respected and our interests are respected,
just as we have always tried to respect the interests of others.”
However, the Russian president stressed that any future understanding is conditional on not “deceiving Russia”.
This is in reference to his repeated accusations against NATO of expanding eastward and breaking previous promises.
The stance on Ukraine and American initiatives
Despite expressing his willingness to end the war in Ukraine “peacefully,” Putin has shown no substantial flexibility;
He reiterated his demands for the withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from the four regions annexed by Russia.
Kyiv has completely abandoned the idea of joining NATO.
Furthermore, Putin praised the “sincere efforts” of US President Donald Trump,
Meanwhile, European leaders were accused of obstructing any genuine efforts to achieve peace.
Field situation and internal challenges
On the ground, Putin claimed that Russian forces were making steady progress,
mocking the Ukrainian president’s visits to the front lines.
Domestically, Putin faced pressing questions about the deteriorating economic situation and rising prices;
This has prompted authorities to try to focus on what they describe
as the “resilience of the Russian economy” in the face of harsh Western sanctions.
Clash of visions between Moscow and Europe
In conclusion, these statements come at a time when European intelligence warnings
are increasing about the escalating “Russian threat”.
Therefore, the situation remains unresolved, with Moscow asserting that it is not seeking new wars.
At the same time, she insisted that she was “ready to defend her security” at any cost.
Especially if what it describes as Western disregard for its historical security demands continues.
