Putin said Russia was ready for conflict but did not want war with Europe
Vladimir Putin said Russia was prepared for a possible conflict but did not want war with Europe, warning escalation would leave “no winners.”
More context
Vladimir Putin warned European countries against restricting shipping in the Baltic Sea, saying such moves could risk a crisis comparable to disruption in the Strait of Hormuz. He also said Russia was prepared for a potential conflict but did not want war with Europe, and that an escalation would leave “no winners.” Speaking to journalists in Moscow on Thursday, Putin said Russia supported efforts to restore relations with European governments, collectively or bilaterally.
Putin said the Nordic leaders initiated contact, despite criticism in some European capitals. The calls were held earlier in the week; neither Russia nor the Nordic governments had announced a breakthrough toward ending the war in Ukraine.
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Reporting
- The Statesman — Putin warns against Baltic Sea shipping curbs, says Russia is ready for war with Europe - The Statesman
- UA News — Putin spoke about Russia's war with Europe and declared the Russian Federation's readiness | UA.NEWS
- Hindustan Times — After Trump, Putin to take away Zelensky's EU allies? Russia eyes ‘better’ European ties after… | Videos
- Reuters — Putin says Moscow seeks better European ties, conflict will produce no winners
- The Economic Times — Russia vs Europe: 'Want Baltic Sea to become like Hormuz?': Putin warns Europe amid rising tensions - The Economic Times
- nacionale.com — Putin says Russia aims for better ties with Europe – conflict yields no winners
Verifier’s note
The Statesman, UA.NEWS, Hindustan Times, Reuters, Nacionale, and The Economic Times report Putin’s readiness for a possible conflict alongside his comments about restoring ties with Europe. Nacionale’s headline closely mirrors Reuters’ report, while the other reports appear to be separate coverage; the event is recent relative to the stated current time.