Putin says Russia is ready to restore ties with European countries

Russian President Vladimir Putin has said Russia is ready to cooperate with European countries and restore relations, while accusing some European leaders of using the war in Ukraine to justify what he described as confrontational policies toward Moscow.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has said Russia is ready to cooperate with European countries and restore relations, while accusing some European leaders of using the war in Ukraine to justify what he described as confrontational policies toward Moscow.

Speaking on Friday at a meeting of the Military-Industrial Commission, Putin accused some European leaders of preparing for a potential conflict with Russia and using what he called an alleged Russian threat to justify increased military spending and their policies.

“In my view, they are simply trying to save their falling ratings, covering up mistakes in their economic and social policies,” Putin said.

He also criticized European leaders for what he described as failing to listen to their citizens and continuing to escalate tensions with Russia.

“I want to state once again: Russia has no aggressive intentions toward Europe or European countries. There are simply no grounds for this whatsoever. We are ready for cooperation and for restoring relations with our European neighbours,” Putin said.

Putin also criticized European military exercises in the Baltic Sea, alleging that some of the drills involve preparations to block or seize civilian vessels.

He accused European countries of hypocrisy over their approach to international law and warned that Moscow would respond if it believed its interests or security were threatened.

“Let us live in peace — otherwise, we, too, will be forced to respond,” Putin said.

During the meeting, Putin also discussed Russia’s new State Armament Programme, which is intended to guide the modernization of the country’s armed forces and defense industry.

His remarks came as the war between Russia and Ukraine continues, with fighting and strikes reported amid ongoing tensions between Moscow and European governments.