The U.S.-Russia Confrontation, as Viewed from Moscow

Jan. 25, 2022 (EIRNS)—During his briefing yesterday, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov assured reporters that President Vladimir Putin takes necessary measures to ensure Russia’s security and the interests of its citizens at a proper level. “The head of our state, as the commander-in-chief and the man who defines the foreign policy of our country, he takes necessary measures to ensure our common security and to protect our interests,” Peskov said. “It were us who initiated the negotiations, the consultation [on guarantees of security for Russia], and we expect to receive written responses to our proposals, which aim to help us avoid such tense situations in the future,” he was quoted by TASS as saying.

According to Peskov, Russia currently exists in an “aggressive environment.” “We read statements made by NATO countries, totally unfriendly, made towards us. This is the reality that we exist in.”

Peskov stressed that Moscow cannot ignore NATO’s military activities along its borders. “After all, there is a constant process of drills, maneuvers, and military development that has never ceased and will be continued.”

The Kremlin press secretary also warned that the risk of provocation by the Kiev regime in the Donbas region is growing. “The risk is there, it is very high. It is higher than before.” At the same time, he declined to predict when the regime might launch its offensive. “Let’s not ... engage in what looks like hysterical actions,” he said, hinting to Western allegations about Russia’s possible invasion of Ukraine.

Peskov also said that there are no plans at the moment for further contacts between Biden and Putin. “If the need arises, nothing should be ruled out, including a conversation at the top level. However, there is no understanding in this regard at the moment,” he said.

He further stressed that the Kremlin is expecting written responses from the U.S. and NATO to its demands for security guarantees. “Yes, we do expect [them to do it] based on how [NATO Secretary General] Mr. Stoltenberg put it. He said that such a response will be prepared,” Peskov said in a response to a question. However, Peskov declined to specify whether Moscow planned to publish the West’s written responses, explaining this morning, that Moscow’s further position will be determined after it gets the U.S. response to the proposals that Russia presented to the United States and NATO on Dec. 15, 2021.