Peskov sent a strong message to Europe: This is your biggest mistake!

Russian President Vladimir Putin's press secretary, Dmitry Peskov, has delivered a sharp rebuke to European nations, accusing them of making a fundamental error in their approach to negotiations with Russia. Speaking during a routine briefing in Moscow, Peskov criticized the European Union for attempting to engage in talks with Russia from a position of strength, calling this misjudgment the "greatest mistake" made by European governments. He emphasized that Moscow remains open to dialogue, but only under conditions that exclude ultimatums and what he described as "moralizing." Peskov stated that European leaders mistakenly believe they can negotiate with Moscow based on the assumption that Russia has been weakened. This belief, according to Peskov, stems either from their inability to accurately assess the situation, misinformation, or outright foolishness. Despite his harsh criticism of Brussels, Peskov reiterated that Russia has not closed its doors to negotiations. He clarified that Moscow was not the instigator of the complete breakdown of these contacts, stressing that continued dialogue requires mutual understanding and respect for the realities on the ground. Putin himself has repeatedly expressed Russia’s willingness to engage in talks, but only without ultimatums or what he perceives as patronizing approaches from the European Union. However, the Russian leader has rejected or dismissed several peace proposal initiatives, including an open letter from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy requesting a direct meeting and a proposed summit during the G7 meeting in France. The Kremlin has claimed it did not receive an official invitation to the latter. In addition to addressing diplomatic relations, Peskov commented on the increasing frequency of Ukrainian drone attacks targeting Moscow. According to reports, Ukraine launched one of its largest drone strikes against Moscow last Thursday, aiming at key infrastructure within the city and surrounding areas. Russian authorities announced that 194 drones were intercepted in the capital region. Attacks continued into Friday, with approximately 200 drones reportedly launched overnight toward Moscow and its surroundings. Peskov accused the Kiev government of continuing along a path inconsistent with ongoing negotiations, stating that Russia is taking appropriate measures in response to the attacks. In the early hours of Sunday morning, over 400 drones were allegedly launched toward the Moscow area, with 85 being shot down as they approached the capital, according to reports from Russian Telegram channels. It was claimed that some of the drones hit oil storage facilities and logistics centers. The escalating conflict continues to test the limits of both sides, with each responding to the other's actions through military and political means. As tensions remain high, the international community watches closely for any potential shifts in strategy or new developments that could alter the course of the ongoing crisis.