Putin warns threats to Kaliningrad could trigger large-scale conflict
Speaking at a year-end press conference in Moscow, he emphasized the seriousness of such provocations.
"I hope that doesn't happen. If threats of this kind are created against us, we will destroy these threats, and everyone must understand this and be aware that actions of this kind will simply lead to an escalation of the conflict unseen until now," Putin said. He added that any attack on Kaliningrad would elevate the conflict to a completely different level.
Putin also criticized European politicians who, he claimed, are deliberately “creating an enemy of Russia to cover their own mistakes, to divert attention from their missteps.” He stressed that Russia is willing to cooperate with the UK, Europe, and the US “on equal terms, with respect for each other,” and argued that collaboration would be more beneficial than conflict.
Referring to NATO Secretary-General Marc Rutte, Putin described some European leaders’ behavior as “aggressive and not very professional.” While praising Rutte personally as “clever and efficient,” he questioned comments suggesting a war with Russia, asking, “What nonsense are you spouting?”
He further noted that Russia is no longer designated as a potential wartime adversary in US military doctrine, questioning how a US-led military bloc can justify preparations for conflict against a country not considered a threat by its main member.
On US politics, Putin expressed support for President Donald Trump’s lawsuit against the BBC, stating that he believes “distortion of information indeed took place.” He also accused European political elites of interfering in US elections, alleging they openly supported Vice President Kamala Harris in 2024 and plan to use upcoming congressional elections to apply pressure on Trump.
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