Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that escalating tensions between Russia and Europe could have severe consequences for all parties, cautioning against any attempts to restrict maritime navigation in the Baltic Sea.

Speaking in Moscow on Thursday following a summit with African leaders, Putin raised concerns over growing discussions surrounding shipping restrictions in the Baltic region. Drawing a comparison with the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most strategically important maritime chokepoints, he questioned whether anyone wanted to see similar instability develop in northern Europe.

“Does someone want the same situation in the Baltic as in the Gulf or the Strait of Hormuz?” Putin asked journalists. “We don’t want that, but we will respond to any challenge.”

The Russian leader stressed that Moscow remained opposed to any measures that could interfere with freedom of navigation in the Baltic Sea, a waterway that has gained increased strategic significance since the deterioration of relations between Russia and Western nations following the conflict in Ukraine.

Putin reiterated that Russia did not seek a military confrontation with Europe but was fully prepared for any scenario should tensions continue to rise. “We are ready, but we want no war with Europe,” he stated, while warning that countries pursuing a confrontational course should carefully consider the potential consequences.

He argued that a further deterioration in relations could prove disastrous for all sides, cautioning that if the situation escalated too far, “there will be no winners at all”. Putin urged governments across the continent not to underestimate the risks associated with a broader conflict.

The remarks come amid continued strain between Moscow and Western capitals, with security concerns in the Baltic region intensifying as NATO has strengthened its presence around the sea following Finland and Sweden’s accession to the alliance. Russia has repeatedly criticised what it views as growing Western military activity near its borders.

Putin also addressed recent telephone conversations with Finnish President Alexander Stubb and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre. The contacts reportedly drew criticism in some European capitals, where certain officials viewed direct engagement with Moscow as inconsistent with the broader Western approach towards Russia.

Defending both leaders, Putin argued that maintaining dialogue remained an essential part of international diplomacy, particularly during periods of heightened tension. He emphasised that communication channels should remain open if relations between Russia and European countries are eventually to be restored.

According to Putin, Russia remains willing to support initiatives aimed at rebuilding ties with European states despite the deepening political and security divisions that have emerged in recent years. He maintained that constructive engagement and continued dialogue are necessary to reduce tensions and prevent further deterioration in relations.

While reaffirming that Moscow does not want a war with Europe, Putin underscored that Russia would respond to any actions it considered a challenge to its interests, particularly in strategically important regions such as the Baltic Sea.

His warning highlighted growing concerns over regional security and the potential consequences of any attempt to disrupt maritime transit routes in northern Europe.

ANI