Fri Oct 03 07:40:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
President Vladimir Putin has condemned Europe’s military build-up as “hysteria,” dismissing concerns about a potential Russian attack on NATO as “nonsense.” He pledged a “significant” response to Europe’s militarization, accusing NATO countries of engaging in combat operations in Ukraine through intelligence and weapons supply. Putin also suggested Russia might retaliate against Ukrainian nuclear plants if Ukraine continues striking near the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, currently under Russian control. He praised Donald Trump’s willingness to listen and discuss a settlement in Ukraine and restoring ties between Russia and the US.
**News Article:**
**Putin Denounces European “Hysteria,” Warns of Response to Military Buildup**
**SOCHI, Russia (AFP/Reuters) -** President Vladimir Putin sharply criticized Europe’s growing military capabilities on Thursday, labeling the heightened focus on defense as “hysteria” and dismissing fears of a potential Russian attack on NATO as “nonsense.” Speaking at a foreign policy forum in Sochi, Putin pledged a “significant” response to what he sees as an unnecessary militarization of the continent.
“They can’t believe what they’re saying, that Russia is going to attack NATO,” Putin stated, suggesting European leaders are either “incredibly incompetent” or “simply dishonest.”
Putin accused NATO countries of directly participating in the conflict in Ukraine, claiming they are “actually taking part in combat operations” through intelligence sharing and weapons supplies. He also placed the blame for the stalled peace process in Ukraine squarely on European countries, accusing them of “constant escalation.”
The Russian President raised concerns about strikes near the Russian-controlled Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, suggesting Russia could retaliate against Ukrainian nuclear facilities. “They still have functional nuclear power plants on their side. What prevents us from responding in kind? Let them think about this,” Putin warned.
In a notable remark, Putin praised US President Donald Trump, highlighting their discussions on a potential settlement to the war in Ukraine and the restoration of relations between the two countries during a summit in Alaska. “Trump is a person who can listen,” Putin said.
These remarks come amid heightened tensions between Russia and the European Union following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, leading to increased military spending and concerns about Russia’s intentions in Eastern Europe.
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