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EU's Kallas Warns of Russian "Existential Threat" as Putin Threatens War

EU High Representative Kaja Kallas stated Europe faces an existential threat from Russia, prompting increased defense spending and openness to buying capabilities from outside Europe, including India. Russian President Vladimir Putin declared Moscow is prepared for a military confrontation if European nations choose escalation, accusing them of blocking diplomatic efforts on Ukraine. His remarks come as US envoys meet in Moscow to discuss a revised peace proposal that has faced criticism from Kyiv and European capitals. Putin also announced plans to intensify attacks on Ukrainian ports, describing recent strikes on Russian vessels as piracy.

Key Points: EU's Kallas: Russia Poses Existential Threat to Europe

  • EU cites existential threat from Russia
  • Putin ready for war if Europe escalates
  • EU members increasing defense spending
  • US peace proposal faces European pushback
  • Russia plans intensified attacks on Ukraine
3 min read

We have existential threat coming from Russia at this time: EU HRVP Kaja Kallas

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas warns of an existential threat from Russia as Putin states readiness for war with Europe. Details on defense and peace talks.

"We have this existential threat coming from Russia at this time. - Kaja Kallas"

New Delhi, January 27

Speaking at a Conference on Europe India and a changing World Order in the national capital EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission Kaja Kallas said that Europe has existential threat coming from Russia at this time.

Kallas said, " We have this existential threat coming from Russia at this time. We have our member states increasing their defence expenditure, and then it also comes down to where you can buy capabilities and with whom you can incorporate. In the first round, we also want this money to go to the European industry, but if the European industry is not able to deliver, then we can buy outside, and I think the competition that comes from such a big country like India is also beneficial for our industries to work to find solutions."

Earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday stated Moscow is ready for a military confrontation if European nations choose escalation, accusing European governments of blocking diplomatic efforts on Ukraine.

Speaking at an investment forum in Moscow, Putin stated, "We are not planning to go to war with Europe, but if Europe wants to and starts, we are ready right now." He claimed European leaders are no longer prioritising negotiations and are instead backing continued hostilities in Ukraine.

Putin argued that European countries are putting forward demands related to the conflict that Russia cannot accept. He further accused Europe of obstructing initiatives by the United States and President Donald Trump to pursue a negotiated settlement.

According to Putin, "They are on the side of war," referring to European positions on the conflict.

His remarks come as US envoy Steve Witkoff and presidential adviser Jared Kushner meet in Moscow to discuss potential steps to end nearly 4 years of fighting.

Washington has circulated a 28-point peace proposal that was revised after pushback from Kyiv and European capitals, which criticised the initial draft for appearing too accommodating to Moscow's conditions.

European governments have voiced concerns that any peace structure could pressure Ukraine to give up territory currently under Russian control.

Putin also announced plans for a stronger military response, saying Russia would intensify attacks on Ukrainian ports and vessels after recent incidents at sea.

He described strikes on Russian tankers as "piracy." He added, "The most radical solution is to cut Ukraine off from the sea, then piracy will be impossible in principle."

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
As an expat living in Delhi, it's fascinating to watch this from an Indian perspective. The EU is finally recognizing India's manufacturing and strategic heft. But Putin's rhetoric is extremely worrying. The world doesn't need another major war. Hope diplomacy prevails.
V
Vikram M
Europe created this mess by expanding NATO eastwards for decades. Now they call it an "existential threat"? Russia feels cornered. India should play the role of a neutral peace broker. We have good relations with both sides. Modi ji's government should actively push for dialogue.
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Priya S
The key takeaway for me is the business opportunity. If European defence industry can't deliver, they will look to India. This is a massive chance for 'Make in India' to go global. We should be ready to supply quality equipment at competitive prices. Jobs and growth for our economy!
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Rohit P
With all due respect to the EU representative, India's primary concern is its own borders and sovereignty. China is our immediate challenge. We will engage with Europe for trade and tech, but our foreign policy decisions will be made in New Delhi, not Brussels. Jai Hind.
K
Kavya N
Putin's statement about cutting Ukraine off from the sea is chilling. It shows the war could escalate further. Ordinary people are suffering the most. India has always stood for peace. Our voice on the global stage should be louder in calling for an immediate ceasefire and humanitarian corridors.
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