Rosenberg: Putin's veiled threat to UK part of Russia's campaign against West

Russian President Vladimir Putin delivered a veiled threat to Britain during a press conference in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, as part of Russia's campaign against the West. When asked if Moscow might target military installations in the UK in response to British arms deliveries to Ukraine, Putin responded with a cryptic "It's a secret."

This response aimed to pressure Britain and encourage the UK to reconsider its support for Ukraine, according to Kremlin-watchers. The cryptic response echoes a recent Moskovsky Komsomolets article suggesting that the UK should view Russia in its nightmares, though it lacks specific details about the nature of those nightmares.

Germany has accused Russia of being behind a drone attack at Leipzig airport, a claim Russia denies. Putin further accused Germany of planting evidence and described the situation as part of "Russian hybrid operations" in Europe. The Russian president also referred to Western countries as "sharks," warning that if anyone tries to "drag us down the food chain, to gobble us up or devour us," Russia will respond with force.

Putin's use of zoological metaphors to describe Russia's war on Ukraine has been a recurring theme in recent speeches.

During the press conference, Putin remained combative and confident, declaring that he believes the enemy will "crumble," despite the war's continuation and Russia's growing losses. The Kremlin still refers to the conflict as a "special military operation." However, Putin has suggested that he is open to negotiations to end the conflict, specifically mentioning that he would prefer to negotiate with Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, envoys from the US administration.

Despite this, there has been no indication that these envoys will meet with Putin in the near future.