Russian President Vladimir Putin stated on September 25, 2026, that Moscow holds no plans or real motives to launch military actions against Europe.
Speaking at a press conference during the International Cultural Forum in Saint Petersburg, Putin dismissed claims from European officials who have warned of potential Russian aggression. He asserted that Russia’s military response to Ukrainian attacks has proved so effective that Kyiv is once again seeking a truce across multiple fronts.
Rejecting European Apprehensions in Saint Petersburg
Putin rejected ongoing assertions by European representatives that Moscow is preparing for a wider war on the continent. During his remarks in Saint Petersburg, he emphasized that Russia maintains no aggressive intentions toward European nations and is not organizing any combat operations against them.
The statements contrast with growing skepticism in Warsaw, where regional developments have kept authorities alert. Polish officials, including those in Warsaw, remain wary of diplomatic overtures toward Moscow, arguing that extending high-profile invitations to Putin—such as to the G-20—could encourage further aggression.
Retaliatory Strikes and the Push for Energy Truces
Shifting focus to the ongoing war, Putin claimed that Russian armed forces have dealt severe blows to Ukrainian positions, forcing Kyiv to reconsider its stance. He stated that approximately 1,600 Ukrainian drones targeted Russian territory on September 20, coinciding with the final day of voting for the State Duma.
According to the Russian president, these cross-border strikes prompted decisive retaliatory actions from Moscow. Putin told reporters that Ukrainian authorities are now actively requesting energy and air truces.
“Proposals for resuming negotiations, yes, such things are indeed on the table, but after everything they have done, we will think carefully about what measures we must take in response,” Putin said, according to Russian state news agency TASS.
Stalled Mediation and Annexed Territories
Mediation efforts led by the United States produced several rounds of discussions between Moscow and Kyiv through 2025, but those talks ultimately stalled. The primary diplomatic deadlock centers on Ukrainian territories claimed and annexed by Russia.
While the Kremlin indicated on September 23 that concrete preconditions for comprehensive peace negotiations do not currently exist, Moscow maintains that it remains open to dialogue. However, Putin’s latest comments signal that any future resumption of talks will be weighed against recent military escalations and cross-border drone strikes.