“This is the sovereign right of any country. We are talking about economic integration processes. Here, of course, no one can dictate anything to another country, and we are not going to do so <…> But a completely different position, of course, on issues related to security, defense and military alliances. We have a different approach there, and it is well known to everyone,” Russian presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.
At the same time, Moscow will observe the discussion on the creation of a unified EU army, as “the EU has not had any defense joint projects so far.”
Peskov also reminded that Vladimir Putin is ready to negotiate with Vladimir Zelensky, but it is important to take into account the legal aspects – “taking into account the reality that Zelensky’s legitimacy can be challenged”.
It’s fascinating how the idea of economic integration is treated as untouchable while security and military alliances remain a battleground of competing narratives. The insistence that no one can dictate economic choices sounds more like a selective principle when contrasted with the firm stance on defense cooperation. Also, the claim about Zelensky’s legitimacy feels like a calculated political jab rather than a genuine invitation for dialogue. It all seems to reveal more about power plays than any real desire for mutual understanding.