Putin Asserts No Future Wars with Respect from the West

Fri Dec 19 2025 21:21:14 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In a recent televised address, Russian President Vladimir Putin claimed that wars will cease if Russia is treated with respect, dismissing allegations of planned aggression against Europe as 'nonsense'.

During a lengthy press conference, Putin's assertions highlighted a defiant stance against the West, insisting on mutual respect to avoid further conflicts. He reaffirmed Russia's readiness for dialogue while reiterating demands for recognition of Russian interests, particularly concerning NATO's expansion. The event attracted attention amid ongoing economic challenges in Russia and the war in Ukraine, with some public criticism surfacing during the broadcast.

Russia's President Vladimir Putin has declared that there will be no more wars after Ukraine if Russia is treated with respect, while asserting that claims of Moscow plotting to attack European nations are nonsense.

In a marathon televised event lasting nearly four and a half hours, when asked if new special military operations - Putin's term for extensive military actions - were on the horizon, he responded, 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.

He emphasized that such respect should include not being deceived as he believes happened with NATO's eastward expansion, reiterating long-standing accusations against the alliance.

The televised session, dubbed the Direct Line, comprised questions from the general public and journalists, with Putin sitting under a detailed map of Russia that included occupied Ukrainian territories such as Crimea. Reportedly, over three million questions were submitted for consideration.

Putin also addressed Russia's domestic issues, suggesting solutions amidst rising prices, economic stagnation, and a proposed VAT increase from 20 to 22% starting January 1st.

Despite his claims that Russia is not seeking more wars, Putin reiterated that he is ready and willing to end the war in Ukraine peacefully, provided that Russia's security needs are met. His remarks included demands for the withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from occupied areas and a halt to Ukraine's NATO ambitions.

The press conference also featured critical public comments, with some citizens expressing frustrations about rising prices and infrastructure issues, including internet outages reportedly tied to regional drone attacks.

In the backdrop of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Putin's comments are seen as a blend of nationalistic rhetoric and defiance against Western criticism. He shifted the blame for the war's continuation towards Western leaders, suggesting they were the impediments to a peaceful resolution.

As discussions for peace continue, particularly involving US efforts to negotiate between the parties, Putin's message seems designed to reassure both domestic and international audiences of Russia's intentions, even as challenges loom on the economic and diplomatic fronts.