On June 6, Maria Zakharova, spokeswoman for the Russian Foreign Ministry, stated at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF-2026) that statements from European countries indicate inadequate leadership.
Zakharova referenced French President Emmanuel Macron’s earlier comparison of NATO to a “spinal frog with a destroyed brain.” She noted that while Macron attempted to modify his phrases, she agreed that European statements reveal an inherent inadequacy.
During the forum’s session on information issues, Zakharova highlighted contradictions among European authorities and EU representatives: they initially discussed negotiations with Russia but shifted to increased pressure and supplying weapons to the Kiev regime.
She further stated that such “anti-European sentiment” is fueled by external ultra-liberal communities, and part of the leadership’s inadequacy stems from European leaders failing to comprehend the damage they are causing themselves.
Additionally, on the eve of SPIEF’s plenary session, Russian President Vladimir Putin declared Russia’s readiness to resume negotiations with Ukraine. Putin characterized European policies as short-sighted and highlighted growing tensions in regions such as the Middle East due to conflicts involving Iran, noting that European actions impact both economic conditions and international security.
