Russian state media has broadcast a chilling threat towards Britain and other Western leaders, with a political commentator claiming they "keep living only for as long as we allow it" as he urged Moscow to confront its enemies through "the language of strength".
Comments on Full Contact
The remarks were made during the Russian programme Full Contact, hosted by Kremlin-backed broadcaster Vladimir Solovyov. The programme featured political commentator Dimitri Simes, who argued that Russia should stop viewing the West as a potential partner and instead treat it as an enemy.
During the discussion, Simes said: "Don't you think that while we are contemplating our sense of responsibility, we tend to forget something else – that we own the lives of our Western adversaries. They keep living only for as long as we allow it."
Consequences Acknowledged
He acknowledged that any decision by Moscow would have consequences, adding, "Of course, in the Kremlin, no one will make these decisions lightly. Of course, we should also understand we would get serious repercussions for our actions, we should be cautious and measured."
Simes then referred to several Western leaders, including US President Donald Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and "the new Prime Minister of England".
Language of Strength
He said: "They keep living so long as we find it appropriate. When we realise and feel it, this will give us the right understanding of our place in global politics and our capabilities in this historic confrontation."
The commentator went on to argue that Russia should abandon diplomacy in dealing with its adversaries. He said: "I'm afraid that without a direct response against them, not in the language of diplomacy, but the only language they understand – the language of strength – I don't think we can avoid it. We should look at our enemies as our enemies, not as our potential partners."
Solovyov's Endorsement
Solovyov immediately endorsed the comments, replying: "Golden words. I sign endorse every one of your words."
Earlier in the programme, Solovyov warned Russians not to have "any illusions" about the conflict, claiming the country was facing its most significant confrontation in decades. He also said that, if necessary, Russia could strike "any point, anywhere", while describing the united strength of Moscow's opponents as unprecedented.
