Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke at a meeting of the Military-Industrial Commission on September 18, addressing international security, NATO's expansion and the growing military activity of European states.
Putin: NATO continues to expand
The Russian president said the North Atlantic Alliance is increasing its presence and expanding its activities beyond its traditional area of responsibility.
“NATO is swelling and expanding, entering different regions of the world,” Putin said during the meeting.
NATO, for its part, explains the strengthening of its military presence in Europe as necessary to reinforce deterrence and the defense of member states. In 2026, the Alliance continued to strengthen its eastern flank and emphasized that these measures are defensive in nature.
“Some European leaders are preparing for war with Russia”
Putin devoted particular attention to statements by European politicians. He said some European leaders are openly speaking about preparing for a possible war with Russia.
The Russian president linked this rhetoric in part to the domestic political situation in European states. In his view, politicians are trying in this way to maintain support amid declining approval ratings.
Moscow says it is ready to restore relations
Despite his harsh criticism of European policy, Putin said Moscow was ready to cooperate and restore relations with its European neighbors. At the same time, the Russian authorities intend to continue strengthening the country's defense capabilities.
The Russian president's statements came amid the continuing strengthening of the defense capabilities of NATO's European members. The Alliance itself links this process to the changed security situation and the need to reinforce collective defense.
