Speaking at a PACE session, German Foreign Minister Johann said Europe could eventually return to normal relations with Russia. For now, however, he argued that European countries need to prepare to defend themselves against the Russian Federation.

According to the minister, the EU does not oppose Russians or Russia as a country. He said the main problem for the West lies with the current Russian authorities.

Johann argued that, at present and likely for the foreseeable future, European security will have to be built not together with Russia, but with protection from it.

He also urged European allies to decide what their future relationship with Moscow should look like and to seek a direct role in negotiations aimed at ending the Russian-Ukrainian conflict. In his view, Europe should not remain on the sidelines while the United States determines the terms of peace on the continent.

Earlier, the Russian Embassy in Belgium warned that attempts by NATO countries to isolate the Kaliningrad Region could lead to a direct armed confrontation with Russia. The diplomatic mission also said the alliance was increasing its military activity in the Baltic region and rehearsing scenarios involving Kaliningrad and Russian ports in the country’s northwest.