Russia’s Shoigu threatens nuclear response to “West’s aggression,” claims Europe prepares for war

He said this in an interview with TASS.

According to him, nuclear deterrence is aimed at “states and military coalitions that consider Russia a potential adversary and possess weapons of mass destruction or substantial general-purpose combat capabilities.”

He also pointed out that in December 2024, Russia and Belarus adopted the Union State’s new security concept, along with agreements on mutual security guarantees. These agreements aim to safeguard the integrity of their shared defense space and to carry out strategic deterrence measures jointly.

At the same time, Shoigu warned that Europe is conducting an “undisguised campaign to prepare” for military conflict with Russia.

“At various levels, officials are openly discussing the potential timeline for such a clash — ranging from three to five years. By 2030, European politicians and military leaders want to be fully prepared to fight us,” he said.

• On April 21, Russian leader Vladimir Putin signed a law ratifying the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement with Iran.