Russian President Vladimir Putin issued a stark warning to Europe on Tuesday, stating Moscow is prepared for conflict if European nations initiate one. This comes amidst high-stakes diplomatic talks in Moscow with US special envoys aimed at ending the war in Ukraine, which is nearing its fourth year.
Putin's Warning and Accusations Against Europe
Speaking ahead of a meeting with US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Donald Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, Putin delivered a firm message. "We are not planning to go to war with Europe, but if Europe wants to and starts, we are ready right now," he declared, as reported by AFP. He further accused Ukraine's European allies of actively obstructing peace efforts led by the United States.
Putin claimed that European governments were adding demands that Russia finds "absolutely unacceptable." He insisted that these actions prove Europe lacks a genuine peace agenda and is instead "on the side of the war," according to the Associated Press.
US-Led Diplomacy and Revised Peace Plan
The talks in Moscow are a critical part of Washington's push to advance a draft peace plan. Witkoff arrived carrying a revised proposal after earlier terms, which would have granted territory to Russia and limited Kyiv's military capabilities, faced strong objections from both Ukraine and European governments.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed the discussions, stating they would continue "as long as needed" and would involve only Witkoff, Kushner, and a US interpreter. This indicates a tightly controlled and direct channel of communication.
Conflicting Claims on the Battlefield and Diplomatic Front
Amid the diplomacy, Putin made a contentious claim that Russian forces had taken control of the town of Pokrovsk. He invited foreign reporters to verify the claim. However, Ukraine swiftly rejected this, calling it "a propaganda stunt" and asserting that fierce fighting in the area is still ongoing.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was in Ireland rallying further European support. During his visit, he acknowledged that the US was taking "serious steps to end the war in one way or another." He stressed that any final agreement must ensure a "decent peace" rather than just a temporary ceasefire.
Ireland announced a significant aid package of €125 million during Zelenskyy's visit. This includes non-lethal military support and crucial funding for Ukraine's beleaguered energy sector.
A Tense Diplomatic Moment
The diplomatic manoeuvres occur at an extremely tense moment. Russian military attacks have intensified across the front lines. Simultaneously, Kyiv's political landscape has been shaken by corruption scandals, which led to the resignation of its top negotiator, further complicating peace efforts.
According to AFP, a Ukrainian delegation may meet with the US envoys Witkoff and Kushner as early as Wednesday, with Brussels being a potential venue. Expressing cautious optimism, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte said he remained "confident" that sustained US efforts would eventually help restore peace in Europe.
The situation remains fluid, with the threat of broader conflict underscored by Putin's direct warning, even as diplomatic channels work intensely behind the scenes to find a path to end the devastating war.
