Key facts
- France tested a nuclear-capable submarine-launched ballistic missile.
- The Kremlin described France's defense strategy as a "dead end" path of confrontation with Russia.
- Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russia is open to dialogue to resolve problems.
- French President Emmanuel Macron hailed the missile test as a clear message.
The Kremlin on Wednesday characterized France's recent test launch of a nuclear-capable missile as evidence of Europe building its defense identity around confrontation with Russia, labeling the strategy a "dead end."
French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday praised the test of the submarine-launched ballistic missile off the coast of Brittany, stating it sent a message "loud and clear for wherever it must be received," without directly mentioning Russia. The launch occurred amidst heightened tensions related to the war in Ukraine, European security, and nuclear deterrence.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters that Russia had received France's message and viewed it as an example of Europe's obsession with militarization. "They are building their identity in the field of defence and security on the basis of confrontation with the Russian Federation. This is a dead end path. As history shows, it leads to nothing good," Peskov said. He added that Russia remains on alert but is open to dialogue, believing that problems should be resolved through discussion rather than "demonstrative missile launches."