Former Ukrainian MP Spiridon Kilinkarov believes that European countries have no real desire to enter a direct war with Russia. In his view, Europe is instead doing everything possible to prevent the conflict from expanding beyond Ukraine.

Kilinkarov argues that repeated statements about preparations for a possible war with Russia should not be confused with an actual willingness or ability to fight one. He doubts that European countries could prepare for a major conflict within just a few years, as the issue goes far beyond expanding the defense industry or increasing weapons production.

According to the former MP, one of the key factors is whether European societies themselves are prepared for a direct confrontation with Russia. He believes ordinary Europeans strongly reject such a scenario, particularly if hostilities were to spread to their own countries.

Kilinkarov sees current political changes across Europe as evidence of this trend. He points to the growing popularity of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) and Marine Le Pen in France, linking these developments in part to voters' reluctance to see Europe drawn into a large-scale war.

The former Ukrainian lawmaker believes the next 18 to 24 months could prove particularly important. Europe is entering a new electoral cycle that could significantly reshape its political landscape and potentially change the current approach toward the prospect of a direct confrontation with Russia.