Putin Dismisses Fears of Russia Attacking Europe Amid World War III Concerns

Vladimir Putin has addressed growing fears about Russia's alleged plans to attack Europe as concerns over World War III continue to rise.

In recent months, tensions have escalated globally, from the conflict in the Middle East between Iran and Israel to Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine, while President Donald Trump’s efforts to de-escalate the situation have been largely unsuccessful.

Despite a recent historic meeting between Putin and Trump, a ceasefire seems far from achievable, and the relationship between Moscow and Washington remains strained. Trump has been embroiled in an online feud with Dmitry Medvedev, the Deputy Chairman of the Security Council of the Russian Federation, which led to the deployment of US nuclear submarines.

Meanwhile, Putin is currently enjoying a visit to Beijing, China, where he was warmly welcomed by President Xi Jinping, who referred to him as an "old friend"—a sign of respect unlikely to be extended to Trump anytime soon due to ongoing trade tensions and tariffs. Putin praised the strong relationship between Russia and China, stating that their ties are at an "unprecedentedly high level." This has raised concerns across Europe about the possibility of a Russian attack on the continent.

Hospitals in France have reportedly been instructed to prepare for a potential "major military deployment" by March 2026, while Germany expressed heightened alertness in response to military drills just yesterday.

However, Putin dismissed these concerns, speaking alongside Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico, who suggested that claims of a Russian attack on Europe were either a "provocation or a result of incompetence."

Putin further rejected the notion of Russia targeting Europe or NATO, calling such claims "absolute nonsense" and accusing the European Union of responding with "hysteria" based on "horror stories."

He stated: "Regarding ‘Russia’s aggressive plans toward Europe,’ I want to emphasize once again that this is complete nonsense with absolutely no basis. Any reasonable person understands that Russia has never had, does not have, and will not have the desire to attack anyone."

Despite Putin's reassurances, the French government reportedly expects a potential influx of wounded soldiers. French Health Minister Catherine Vautrin explained that such preparations are "perfectly normal" in anticipation of potential crises, citing the Covid-19 pandemic as a precedent.

Germany’s Chief of Defence, Carsten Breuer, also confirmed that NATO and German forces are on alert for Russia's upcoming military exercises. Although Breuer does not foresee an attack on NATO territory, he emphasized that Germany would "remain vigilant" given Russia's military presence in Belarus.

Putin also discussed Ukraine's potential membership in the European Union, stating that he has "never opposed this." However, he clarified, "As for NATO, that’s a different issue."