Ruski ministar financija došao na sastanak G20: Ogorčeni Europljani odbili fotografirati se s njime

A retired Croatian military officer has warned that the war in Ukraine is escalating further, citing increased attacks between Russia and Ukraine, rising civilian casualties, and Russian provocations aimed at European NATO members. Vilko Klasan, a former officer of the Croatian Army (HV), made these remarks during an interview on HTV's "Studio 4" program. He emphasized that Russia is conducting more frequent and intense operations, including drone attacks against European targets, which have led to retaliatory measures from several countries. Germany announced plans to respond to a recent failed drone attack on Leipzig’s airport last month by potentially closing the Russian consulate in Bonn and the Russian House of Science and Culture in Berlin. Germany also intends to push for stricter sanctions against Russia, introduce entry controls for Russian citizens, and increase pressure on what is referred to as the "shadow fleet." However, Klasan noted that this does not constitute a complete severance of diplomatic relations. He pointed out that both sides would likely reciprocate with closures of their own institutions, such as the Goethe Institute in Russia and possibly a German consulate there. Klasan highlighted concerns over mysterious explosions at ammunition storage facilities in Italy and Bulgaria, as well as incidents at Amsterdam’s airport. These actions, he argued, are part of a broader strategy by Russia to divert European support for Ukraine. He contrasted the American approach to the conflict with the European stance, suggesting that the United States might take a different path compared to its European allies. The situation in Ukraine continues to deteriorate, with air strikes becoming increasingly destructive. Klasan mentioned that July saw the highest number of civilian deaths since the start of the war, despite earlier efforts to target only military objectives. He criticized the lack of anti-aircraft missiles for the Patriot defense systems, noting that the United States has halted deliveries due to its own needs amid the ongoing conflict in Iran. Additionally, he described the use of high-speed drones by Russia as a new and dangerous tactic, making them difficult to eliminate without hitting intended targets. Klasan stressed that while the military may experience fatigue, the leadership remains undeterred. He concluded that the war is intensifying, and the international community must remain vigilant and prepared for further escalation. Meanwhile, Russian Finance Minister Anton Siluanov attended a G20 finance ministers meeting in Asheville, North Carolina, where he held discussions with his American counterpart, Scott Bessent, focusing on financial cooperation and interactions within the G20 framework. The presence of Russia at the meeting caused dissatisfaction among European officials, particularly German Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil, who stated that normalization of relations is impossible as long as Moscow continues its war against Ukraine. Siluanov’s attendance marked a potential step toward normalization, according to Klingbeil, but it raised concerns among European partners. They refused to be photographed with Siluanov, highlighting their discontent. While Russia and the United States appear to be engaging in dialogue, European nations are working on new sanction packages targeting Russia and hope for continued cooperation from Washington. Klingbeil expressed concern over the invitation extended to Siluanov, emphasizing the need for a unified approach in dealing with Russia. Despite the apparent willingness to engage in dialogue, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine remains a major obstacle to improving relations. The European response underscores the deep divisions and tensions surrounding Russia’s involvement in the region.