Russia

‘You’re playing with fire,’ RT editor-in-chief warns Europe (FULL INTERVIEW)

RT English · 2026-07-08

AI SUMMARY

• What happened: RT editor-in-chief Margarita Simonyan warned that Europe's support for Ukraine in military operations against Russia could provoke a significant military response from Moscow. • Why it matters: Simonyan emphasized that Ukraine's military actions are heavily reliant on Western backing, suggesting that Europe is escalating the conflict rather than Ukraine itself, which could lead to increased tensions and instability in the region. • What to watch next: Monitor the reactions from European nations and Russia, as well as any shifts in public sentiment within Russia regarding the ongoing conflict and the potential for a stronger response from the Kremlin.

**Title: RT Editor-in-Chief Warns Europe of Escalating Tensions with Russia**

In a recent interview with Die Weltwoche, Margarita Simonyan, the editor-in-chief of RT, expressed grave concerns regarding Europe's support for Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia. Simonyan characterized Europe’s involvement as “playing with fire,” suggesting that the assistance provided to Ukraine in conducting strikes deep into Russian territory could provoke a significant military response from Moscow.

During the interview, which took place on Wednesday, Simonyan emphasized that Ukraine is not independently escalating the conflict but is instead reliant on Western backing for its military operations. She stated, “it is not Ukraine that is bringing the war to Moscow” but rather the European nations that are providing crucial intelligence and resources. This assertion highlights her belief that Ukraine’s military capabilities are insufficient without external support.

Simonyan warned that the situation is becoming increasingly precarious for Russia, as the impact of ongoing military actions—such as drone strikes and missile attacks—begins to affect civilian life. She noted that disruptions caused by these attacks, including fuel shortages and flight cancellations, have led to growing anxiety among the Russian populace. “People are afraid to sleep at night,” she remarked, indicating a rising sense of urgency and distress among citizens.

The RT editor-in-chief raised concerns about the potential for public sentiment in Russia to shift dramatically if hardships continue to mount. She speculated on a tipping point where the Russian people might demand a stronger response from President Vladimir Putin. “Where is the limit of this hardship, when the people will say, ‘Vladimir Vladimirovich, we have to respond!’ I don’t know, but I think it is very close. Very close,” she warned.

Simonyan's comments reflect the heightened tensions in the region and the complexities of international involvement in the conflict. As the situation evolves, her statements underscore the potential for escalation and the need for careful consideration of the consequences of military support to Ukraine.

The interview serves as a reminder of the intricate dynamics at play in the ongoing conflict and the potential ramifications for both Russia and Europe. As the war continues, the balance between military assistance and diplomatic solutions remains a critical topic of discussion among global leaders and analysts alike.

Source: RT English
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