Putin accuses EU and NATO of imposing confrontational policy

President Vladimir Putin stated that the European Union and NATO are pursuing a confrontational policy toward Russia, according to TASS English.

Putin made the assertion while discussing Russian-Slovak relations, referencing historical cooperation between Moscow and Bratislava. He noted that bilateral ties had maintained "a high level of political dialogue and stable cooperation dynamics" during previous Slovak administrations.

The comments reflect Russia's ongoing dispute with Western institutions over Ukraine policy, NATO expansion, and sanctions imposed following the 2022 invasion. Moscow has repeatedly accused the EU and NATO of escalating tensions in Eastern Europe.

Slovakia, a NATO member and EU state, has maintained a more cautious diplomatic stance toward Russia compared to some Western allies, though it supports EU sanctions. Putin's remarks underscore Russia's effort to cultivate relationships with European nations critical of unified Western responses to Moscow's actions.