Putin Claims Readiness for European War While Claiming It Seeks Avoidance

Russian leader Vladimir Putin stated on October 29 that Russia is prepared for a war with Europe, though it does not desire one.

Putin argued that inflicting a strategic defeat on Russia by 2030 is unlikely to be possible, according to The Moscow Times.

Speaking at a press conference following the Russia-Africa summit, Putin questioned discussions about preparing for military conflict by 2030, stating, “Many are only talking about preparing for war by 2030. Is this right? No. First of all, we are ready, but we do not want any war with Europe.”

He added that Moscow supports steps to restore relations with Europe, both as a whole and with individual nations, while issuing a warning about severe escalation: “And if it goes too far, there will be no winners at all. Let no one forget about this,” The Moscow Times reported.

Regarding maritime security, the Russian leader stated that Moscow wishes to avoid escalation in the Baltic Sea comparable to conditions in the Persian Gulf or the Strait of Hormuz. “We do not want such a situation, but we will respond to any challenge,” Putin said, emphasizing the need to uphold international law.

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He noted that the Baltic situation was discussed during conversations held on the initiative of Finnish President Alexander Stubb and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

Earlier in October, Russian special services were instructed to intensify hybrid operations across EU and NATO states, relying on agents recruited by the GRU and FSB.

Starlink receiving stations in Europe were identified among the likely targets. In Latvia, two citizens were detained on suspicion of gathering intelligence for the GRU on NATO activity, radar systems, and military infrastructure, with one allegedly photographing the Ādaži military base from a private aircraft.

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