
Moscow [Russia], July 9 (ANI): Europe’s security architecture cannot be guaranteed without Russia’s involvement, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova asserted on Wednesday, warning that any attempts to ignore or undermine Russia’s interests in the region are “doomed to fail.”
Speaking at a briefing, Zakharova emphasized that sustainable security in Europe depends on constructive engagement with Moscow rather than confrontation. Her comments, reported by Izvestia MIC, came as the war in Ukraine continues to dominate the continent’s geopolitical agenda.
“Europe’s security cannot be ensured without Russia’s participation… And attempts to act around or against the interests of our country are doomed to failure, and will ricochet against those who originated this logic,” Zakharova stated.
Her remarks followed a statement earlier on Wednesday by Czech President Petr Pavel, who also raised the prospect of eventual cooperation between Russia and Europe after the conflict in Ukraine concludes.
According to Izvestia, President Pavel acknowledged that perpetuating the conflict with Russia would only result in further human and economic losses. He suggested that Europe must prepare for dialogue with Russia once conditions allow.
“What alternatives do we have? To continue the conflict with Russia indefinitely? Such an approach will likely result in significant human losses for all of us and substantial damage to our economies. We want and must start somewhere,” Pavel said.
He added that after the war in Ukraine ends, Europe could resume discussions on security cooperation and business ties with Russia that existed prior to the conflict.
The comments from both Moscow and Prague reflect growing acknowledgment that a long-term European security framework will require some level of engagement with Russia, even amid sharp divisions over Ukraine and other disputes.
The statements come as Western nations continue to impose sanctions and provide military support to Kyiv, while Russia insists that its security concerns must be addressed for any resolution to be sustainable. (ANI)