The current Putin's Russia is neither a friend nor a partner, but rather a threat to all of Europe, and not only to Europe.
This was stated by Austrian Federal Chancellor Christian Stocker in an interview with the Ö1 radio station.
"I have always said that I do not consider Russia a friend or a partner as long as Vladimir Putin remains the defining political force there. That is why we have also changed our security strategy. I personally believe that Russia is a threat to Europe, and not only to Europe, and we must counter this," the Chancellor responded when asked if he considers Russia a threat to Austria.
He emphasized that Austria is currently investing in enhancing its own defense capabilities, increasing defense spending to 2% of GDP.
Commenting on the efforts led by the Trump administration to negotiate peace in the war between Russia and Ukraine, Stocker stated that any negotiations aimed at achieving peace are appropriate. However, he stressed that "peace must be just and sustainable" and that "the victim of aggression must also be involved in these negotiations."
In his opinion, the European Union "could also make its contribution" in this regard.
