A high-ranking Russian official has stated that a conflict between Russia and Europe is unavoidable.
Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko also alleged that Europe is actively getting ready for a potential military confrontation with Russia.
During his address at the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) Foreign Ministerial Council in Austria, TASS reported that Grushko accused Europe of perceiving Russia as a “long-term threat.”
Grushko remarked: “There are deliberate preparations being made in the areas of economy, society, and military readiness for an imminent armed conflict with Russia. Russia has been labeled a long-term threat, and absurd intentions of attacking are being irrationally attributed to it.”
He further mentioned that the situation at the OSCE was “precarious.” He added: “Discussions within the structured dialogue, aimed at easing military tensions, were initially halted and then proceeded without the involvement of Russia and Belarus, breaching all procedural norms. This has led to a significant crisis in this framework.”
NATO Secretary General Mark Ruttle emphasized on December 3 the need for “constant vigilance” in light of Russia’s increasingly provocative actions towards the alliance.
Addressing the media, Ruttle highlighted that Russia allocates 40% of its state budget to defense, emphasizing NATO’s need to respond. He also stressed that member states “must step up.”
Regarding the goal of attaining a 5% GDP defense spending target by 2035, Ruttle remarked: “This is not just about figures; it involves establishing a more robust, adaptable Alliance capable of deterring any aggression and safeguarding all Allied territories.”
Meanwhile, the UK and Norway have recently inked a defense pact that includes joint operations of warships to safeguard undersea cables from potential threats posed by Russian submarines.
British authorities have expressed concerns over the escalating risks to these cables from Moscow. Sir Keir Starmer hailed the agreement with Norway, revealed today, as a “landmark” development.
Starmer commented: “Given the current global uncertainties and the rising presence of Russian vessels in our waters, it is imperative that we collaborate with international allies to ensure our national security. This significant pact with Norway bolsters our capacity to protect our borders and the crucial infrastructure vital for our nations.”