Putin Denounces NATO's 'Hysteria' and 'Lie' Amid Rising Tensions

Russian President Vladimir Putin has lashed out at NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte's comments, calling them 'hysteria' and a 'lie'. Putin's criticism comes in response to Rutte's remarks in Berlin, where he urged NATO allies to prepare for a major war similar to those endured by their grandparents. In a stern warning, Putin accused Western leaders of fueling fear and misinformation about Russia's intentions. He reiterated that the claims of a Russian threat to European countries are baseless and deliberately fabricated. Rutte's comments, made in a speech in Berlin, emphasized the need for NATO allies to rapidly increase defense spending and production to prevent a future war. He also expressed concerns that many allies are not feeling the urgency of the situation and are complacent about Russia's threat. Meanwhile, Putin has also warned Ukraine and the West that if peace talks are abandoned, Russia will take control of the lands it claims in Ukraine through military means. The Russian President said that the goals of the special military operation in Ukraine will be achieved, and he prefers to resolve the conflict through diplomacy. The statement comes amid ongoing negotiations between Ukraine and the US for a deal to end the four-year-old war in Ukraine. Kyiv is under pressure to make territorial concessions, while Russia has ruled out withdrawing from the territory it has seized. The situation remains tense, with Russia controlling approximately 19% of Ukraine.