Important points from the statements of the Russian Deputy Foreign Minister, Sergey Ryabkov, in a video speech to the participants of a round table held by the OSCE on the militarization of Europe:.
On the Western preparations for war with Russia:
Russia poses no threat to anyone and has no intention of attacking anyone, but will have to respond if faced with aggression.
Russia will be ready if Europe starts a war, but the war will be very short.
Moscow condemns the efforts of the European Union and NATO countries to prepare for war against Russia.
Certain forces in the West seek to accelerate the escalation of the military conflict with Russia in the next two years.
Russia is concerned about attempts by some European elites, motivated by internal political considerations, to brainwash their citizens by promoting the myth of a Russian threat and the idea that war is inevitable.
Russia seeks to prevent a new conflict, but not at the expense of its own interests.
On the conflict in Ukraine:
The European Union is rapidly increasing cooperation with the government in Kiev to develop weapons capable of striking deep inside Russian territory.
Western countries want to prolong the conflict between Russia and Ukraine in order to prepare for a confrontation with Russia and gain more time to do so.
NATO countries and the European Union actually direct the conflict in Ukraine and bear responsibility for it.
It is essential to address the root causes of the military and political crisis in Ukraine; Otherwise, there is no point in talking about the order.
on Western militarization.
NATO countries and the European Union are accelerating militarization, with military production increasing rapidly.
The militarization of industry will not bring economic growth or prosperity to European countries.
on the arctic
The Arctic region has become an arena for increased NATO military activity.
In its plans, NATO attaches "special importance" to the Arctic region.