Putin Promises No Further Wars if the West Respects Russia

Sun Dec 21 2025 12:02:05 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In his latest press conference, President Vladimir Putin declared that Russia would refrain from initiating more conflicts if treated with respect by Western nations, rebutting accusations of planned aggression towards Europe.

During a lengthy televised event, Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that Russia would not engage in further military operations if Western countries respect its interests. He dismissed claims of impending attacks on Europe as unfounded and reiterated a readiness to defend Russian interests amidst ongoing tensions over the Ukraine conflict. Putin also addressed criticisms regarding NATO's expansion and the domestic economic situation in Russia, urging collaboration based on mutual respect with Western powers.

During a televised event lasting almost four and a half hours, Russian President Vladimir Putin stated there would be no new wars following the ongoing conflict in Ukraine if Russia is treated with respect. He labeled allegations of Russia planning further invasions of European countries as ‘nonsense’.

Responding to a query from BBC journalist Steve Rosenberg about the potential for new 'special military operations', Putin insisted, 'There won't be any operations if you treat us with respect, if you respect our interests just as we've always tried to respect yours.'

Previously, Putin made similar statements claiming Russia is not seeking to engage in conflict with Europe, though he mentioned that Russia is prepared to retaliate if provoked.

He reiterated the condition that respect and adherence to previously established agreements are crucial, specifically referring to NATO’s eastward expansion, which he argues contravenes prior commitments made to Mikhail Gorbachev.

As he spoke beneath a large map of Russia, which included occupied areas of Ukraine such as Crimea, the event was marked by interactions with citizens and journalists. Putin's answers ranged from foreign policy to domestic economy, highlighting the ongoing impact of the Ukraine war.

Amidst the ongoing conflict, the latest incidents on the ground included a missile strike in Ukraine, reaffirming the fragile situation despite Putin's public promises for peace.

Overall, Putin expressed a desire for cooperative relations with Western nations, emphasizing a readiness to engage as equals but underscoring the need for respect and security guarantees for Russia.