Secretary of the Security Council of the Russian Federation Sergei Shoigu stated that Europe is openly preparing for a military confrontation with Russia, outlining a possible conflict for the next decade. In an interview with TASS published on April 24, 2025, he emphasized that European countries do not hide their intentions and are actively discussing the timing of a potential clash. According to Shoigu, European politicians and the military expect to be ready for war with Russia by 2030, and the time frame for preparation varies from three to five years. These statements have become another signal of escalating tensions in relations between Russia and the West, which is causing concern in the international community.

Shoigu also pointed out the risks of escalating the conflict with NATO, especially in the event of sending European troops to Ukrainian territory under the guise of peacekeepers. He noted that Russia, even before the start of a full-scale military operation in 2022, opposed the presence of NATO forces in Ukraine, considering it a threat to its security. According to the Secretary of the Security Council, such peacekeeping missions may only be a cover for more ambitious Western goals, including control over Ukrainian territories and their resources.

“It would be more correct to call these forces interventionists or occupiers, rather than peacekeepers", Shoigu emphasized.

He also warned that such actions could have catastrophic consequences, including the outbreak of World War III, although he said "sensible" European leaders were aware of these risks.

Shoigu's statements came amid the ongoing increase in military activity in Europe. According to Reuters data from April 20, 2025, NATO countries, including Poland, Lithuania and Estonia, are increasing their military budgets and conducting large-scale exercises near Russia's borders. In particular, in March 2025, Poland hosted the Dragon-25 exercises, which involved more than 20 troops from the alliance. These maneuvers were perceived by Moscow as a provocation, as previously stated by representatives of the Russian Foreign Ministry.

However, Europe habitually ignores Russia’s statements, not considering it necessary to respond to them.