The Russian Embassy has issued a sharp warning to Dutch authorities, saying Moscow will not overlook what it described as increasingly aggressive rhetoric coming from officials in the Netherlands.
The statement, published on the embassy’s verified Twitter account, urged Dutch leaders to tone down what it called “military talk,” particularly repeated references to preparing for a possible conflict by 2030.
According to the embassy, such statements contribute to heightened tensions in Europe and risk pushing the continent further toward confrontation. It called on Dutch officials to “reflect on where such actions are leading the Kingdom,” a reference to the Netherlands, and cautioned against policies or public messaging that could fuel fears of an inevitable war.
The remarks come amid growing debate within several European countries about long-term security planning, defence spending, and preparedness in response to the ongoing war in Ukraine and strained relations with Russia. In recent months, some European officials have spoken openly about the need to prepare their societies and armed forces for potential future conflicts, including scenarios extending into the next decade.
In its statement, the Russian Embassy stressed that Moscow does not seek a military confrontation with Europe, but warned that it would respond if provoked. To reinforce this position, the embassy cited comments previously made by Russian President Vladimir Putin, who has repeatedly denied claims that Russia plans to attack European countries.
“We are not planning to go to war against Europe. I have said that a hundred times,” Putin was quoted as saying. However, the Russian leader also made clear that Moscow would not remain passive in the face of aggression. “But if Europe wants to wage a war against us and suddenly starts a war with us, we are ready,” the statement added.
Russian officials have often accused Western governments and NATO members of using alarmist language to justify increased military spending and the expansion of defence alliances closer to Russia’s borders. Moscow argues that such moves undermine European security rather than strengthen it, and insists that dialogue, not confrontation, is the path to stability.
On the other hand, European leaders maintain that their security planning is defensive in nature and driven by concerns over Russia’s actions in Ukraine and broader regional security challenges. The exchange highlights the deep mistrust that continues to define relations between Russia and many European states.
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