Gentlemen, it has become painfully evident that the European powers have embarked upon a course of militarisation and open confrontation with our Empire. As the spokesperson for the President, Mr. Peskov, has rightly observed, the emergence of a new 'defence identity' within Europe is not a matter for idle speculation, but a direct provocation that our State cannot afford to ignore.

Such reckless tendencies on the part of the West compel us to devise additional measures to ensure the security of our borders. It is a matter of paramount state utility that the integrity of our realm be preserved against any foreign encroachment. While discussions persist within the halls of power—some advocating for the utmost decisive action and others for a more measured prudence—one truth remains immutable: the security of the Russian Federation and her national interests shall be guaranteed by any means necessary.

It is a grave misfortune that the European Union now finds itself practically embroiled in the current conflict. Consequently, any pretension that Brussels might serve as a neutral mediator is, in the eyes of our government, utterly devoid of merit. We have returned to an era of rigid confrontation, a state of affairs that demands the utmost fortitude from our army and our industry.

Let it be known that while our State remains open to diplomatic discourse, such negotiations can only bear fruit if the Europeans abandon their tedious moralising and exhibit a genuine desire for agreement. Contrastingly, the Estonian Minister, Mr. Margus Tsahkna, suggests that European participation in negotiations would require a posture of neutrality and a cessation of pressure upon Moscow. However, for those of us who value the stability of the Fatherland, only a position of strength and sobriety can ensure a lasting peace.