Putin says Russia is ready for war with Europe but does not want one

First of all, we are ready, but we do not want a war with Europe. If things go too far, there will be no winners at all.

— Vladimir Putin, Russian president

He spoke after a 90-minute call on Oct 27 with Finland's president, Alexander Stubb, and Norway's prime minister, Jonas Gahr Støre, who urged de-escalation and a return to peace talks.

Putin also warned against restrictions on Baltic Sea shipping, saying Moscow will answer any provocation. Denmark's prime minister criticized the call and said Europe should stay united.