Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that the West has failed to achieve its goal of inflicting a strategic defeat on Russia, and it is unlikely to happen by 2030. During a press conference after the Russian-African summit, Putin emphasized that any war between Russia and Europe would not have winners. He noted that several European countries are preparing for war with Russia by 2030, but Russia is prepared and does not want war.
Putin highlighted that Russia does not want a situation similar to the one in the Strait of Hormuz to form in the Baltic Sea. He stressed that Europe cannot inflict a strategic defeat on Russia and that if they cross borders, there will be no winners. Putin recalled the lessons of World War I and II, and Russia is making efforts to prevent such wars from recurring. He warned that if a war between Russia and Europe occurs, there will be no winners.
German Lieutenant General Christian Freuding, Inspector of the German Army, called for accelerating the buildup of NATO's defensive capabilities. He made this statement after visiting the three Baltic republics: Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, which are NATO members. During his visit, Freuding conducted extensive reconnaissance on NATO's eastern flank. He emphasized the importance of pre-storing weapons and military equipment in advanced locations.
Freuding, along with his Dutch counterpart, Major General Jan Savelis, and senior commanders of the German and Dutch armies, conducted a tour to assess potential military operation areas in Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. The visit aimed to evaluate the situation along NATO's external border with Russia and Belarus. The term "night fighting" refers to military operation plans to counter a surprise attack without extensive prior preparations.
The possibility of a limited Russian attack on NATO territory concerns military planners and security experts, particularly given Russia's struggles in Ukraine. Meanwhile, the Pentagon has asked several European countries to tone down their rhetoric on the Russian threat. According to sources, Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia are among the countries that received messages urging them to be cautious in their public statements.
The messages, delivered during bilateral meetings, aimed to reduce the risk of escalating tensions. However, it is unclear if other European governments received similar messages. The request to tone down the rhetoric comes as some European leaders have made statements that may be perceived as provocative.
The situation remains tense, with both sides emphasizing their readiness for potential conflict. Putin reiterated that Russia does not seek war but will not back down if provoked. European countries, on the other hand, are strengthening their military capabilities and urging caution in public statements.
Key points
- Putin warns of no winners in a potential war with Europe.
- Germany calls for accelerating NATO's defensive buildup.
- Pentagon urges European countries to tone down rhetoric on Russian threat.
