Putin warns of escalation: "The use of all means will be inevitable"

Russian President Vladimir Putin stated at the Valdai foreign policy forum in Moscow that military exercises and the detention of Russian vessels constitute escalation, and warned that if a real threat to Russia arises, the use of all available means will be inevitable. Putin also addressed the threat to Kaliningrad, saying that if a threat to the exclave emerges, Russia will consider using all weapons at its disposal. These remarks come amid rising tensions with Europe, as German Chancellor Friedrich Merz warned that his country is preparing for significant combined attacks from Russia.

Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed the growing tensions with Europe today (Thursday) during a speech at the Valdai foreign policy forum in Moscow. Putin stated that military exercises and the detention of Russian vessels constitute escalation, and warned that if a real threat to Russia arises, "raising the possibility of using all available means will be inevitable." He specifically addressed the threat to the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad, saying that if a threat to it emerges, Russia will consider using all weapons at its disposal. These remarks come amid a further rise in tensions in Europe and fears of a more direct confrontation between Russia and NATO countries. Earlier today, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz warned that his country is preparing for "significant combined attacks from Russia," and made clear that if necessary, Germany "will respond quickly and decisively." The statements come at a time when tensions between Moscow and European countries are increasing, as Russia warns against military and political steps that would be interpreted as a direct threat to it, while Germany and other countries prepare for the possibility of further escalation from Russia.