Putin Warns of response to European militarization, Accuses West of “Hysteria”
Russian President Vladimir Putin issued a strong warning on Thursday, October 2nd, stating that Moscow would respond to increased European military activity with a “very convincing” countermeasure.
Speaking at the Valdai Discussion Club in Sochi, Putin dismissed claims of impending Russian aggression as “nonsense,” accusing European political elites of deliberately stoking fear with a “narrative that the Russian threat is at the door.” He suggested those promoting this idea where either “incredibly incompetent” or “simply dishonest.”
Putin specifically highlighted Germany’s plans to build “the most powerful army in Europe,” emphasizing that Russia is closely monitoring these developments.He asserted that such actions would inevitably provoke a Russian response, one that would be swift and substantial.
The Russian leader reiterated his view that the conflict in Ukraine pits Russia not only against Kyiv but also against the entirety of the NATO alliance, alleging that NATO provides extensive support to Ukrainian forces, including intelligence, training, and weaponry.
Putin expressed gratitude for the support of countries like those within BRICS, Belarus, north Korea, and the United Arab Emirates, while placing the blame for the continuation of the war in Ukraine on “a minority in Europe.”
He also downplayed Western concerns regarding alleged Russian drones found in european countries, jokingly stating russia doesn’t possess drones capable of reaching Lisbon, and even if they did, there would be no targets there.
