Russian Official States Readiness to Take Countermeasures in Case of EU Militarization
Russia is prepared to take countermeasures in the event of European Union militarization, according to the press secretary of the Russian president, Dmitri Peskow, during a press conference on March 7.
Peskow’s statement was in response to a question about the EU’s recent proposal to rearm and provide military support to Ukraine with 800 billion euros over four years, which was supported by the EU leaders at a special summit in Brussels.
Peskow emphasized that the EU’s military efforts are primarily directed against Russia and therefore, the militarization of the EU could lead to a necessity for Russia to take countermeasures for its security.
He also noted that the EU’s development of its military branch is a process that Russia is carefully observing.
Peskow added that the EU’s confrontation rhetoric, which Russia sees in Brussels and other European capitals, is a serious obstacle to finding ways for a peaceful regulation of the situation in Ukraine.
In the context of the current situation, Peskow also mentioned the need to consider European nuclear arsenals in the event of theoretical disarmament negotiations between Russia and the United States, particularly in the light of recent statements by French President Emmanuel Macron.
Macron had stated on March 5 that France needs its own nuclear shield for the security of European states and some European states have supported this proposal.
Peskow further emphasized that Moscow prefers a diplomatic solution to the conflict in Ukraine, but this is being hindered by the position of Ukraine.
According to Peskow, under the conditions where Ukraine is refusing dialogue and has even made it illegal for itself, Russia will continue to carry out a special military operation to secure its interests.