Russian Defense Minister Shoigu said that Moscow is not to blame for European tensions
Sergei Shoigu. Photo: Sergey Guneev / RIA Novosti
Moscow is not to blame for the growing tension in Europe and Ukraine, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said at a meeting with his British counterpart Ben Wallace, Interfax reports.
“I am glad to welcome you to Moscow, to the Russian Ministry of Defense. The military-political situation in Europe is becoming more and more tense. And it's not our fault. We do not quite and do not always understand the causes of this tension. Nevertheless, we see that it is growing, ”Shoigu said.
He shared his opinion that the meeting would allow discussing topical issues of reducing European tension and the role of states in the peace process. Shoigu said that the Russian leadership would soon present a new response to the security proposals.
“Our proposals to the United States of America and NATO on ensuring security in Europe, which we sent in December, received a response in January. Now it's all considered. I think that in the near future our answer will also follow, ”Shoigu confirmed.
British Defense Minister Ben Wallace arrived in Moscow on Friday, February 11. Earlier, The Times reported, citing sources, that the main purpose of Wallace's visit was to “make it clear that the invasion of Ukraine would be costly” for Russia.
Earlier, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov held talks with his British counterpart Liz Truss. After the end of the conversation, the diplomat said that Truss again demanded the removal of Russian troops from Russian territory. According to the minister, this state of affairs is at least regrettable.
