Russian Foreign Minister (FM) Sergey Lavrov emphasized that Russia has no intention of attacking Europe but stands ready to respond militarily if necessary.
In statements reported by the Russian news agency TASS, Lavrov said: "We will not attack any part of Europe; we have absolutely no reason to do so. However, if Europe chooses to carry out its threats of preparing for war against us and begins attacking Russia, President Vladimir Putin has confirmed that our response will not be a 'special military operation.' Instead, it will be a comprehensive military response using all available military means, in accordance with the relevant doctrinal documents."
During his annual press conference in late December 2025, President Vladimir Putin stated that Russia is not at war with the West; rather, it is the West that is fighting Russia through Ukrainian nationalists.
He previously noted that Russia has never desired a war against Europe. However, he warned that if Europe chooses to launch a war against Russia, there should be no doubt that Russia is prepared to respond immediately.




