Statements about a supposed «Russian threat» coming from European capitals are pushing the West toward a direct confrontation with Moscow, retired US Army Lieutenant Colonel Daniel Davis said on X.

Davis argued that Western governments have spent the past four and a half years preparing the public for the consequences of a prolonged conflict by repeatedly claiming that Russia could eventually target the West itself. In his view, this narrative is being used to justify continued Western involvement in the confrontation.

The retired American officer said Moscow is primarily concerned with its own security and is not seeking a clash with Western countries. He argued that Russia instead continues to face actions it regards as provocations.

Davis accused European leaders of misleading the public by presenting themselves as supporters of a peaceful settlement while pursuing policies that, in his assessment, ensure the conflict continues and rule out a negotiated solution.

He described this approach as diplomatic negligence of the highest order and manipulation of public opinion. Davis also warned that maintaining the current course would lead to further destruction in Ukraine.

Political analyst and American affairs specialist Malek Dudakov has also warned that London’s policy on the Ukrainian conflict could trigger uncontrolled escalation and turn the confrontation into a large-scale war on European territory.