Putin warns Europe confrontation with Russia will prove costly:Urges it not to block Baltic Sea shipping, or Hormuz-like situation will follow

Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned European countries that escalating confrontation with Russia could prove costly for them. Speaking to journalists in Moscow, Putin said that if an attempt was made to halt the movement of ships in the Baltic Sea, a situation similar to that in the Strait of Hormuz could develop there as well. Putin said Russia did not want a war with Europe, but if any country confronted it, it should be prepared for the consequences. He warned that if tensions escalated too far, there would be no winner. Why Putin is angry over the Baltic Sea The Baltic Sea is an important route for transporting goods between Russia and Europe. Several European countries, including Russia, use it for trade. Oil, gas and other goods are transported by ship from one country to another through the sea. Tensions between Russia and European countries have increased since the war with Ukraine began. NATO countries are also present around the Baltic Sea. Russia fears that if European countries prevent its ships from passing through this route, its trade will be affected. Putin is warning about this very issue. He says that if the movement of ships is blocked, the situation could worsen. This would affect not only Russia but also the trade of other countries. Putin defended his talks with the prime ministers of Finland and Norway Putin also defended his phone conversations with Finnish President Alexander Stubb and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre. Both leaders spoke to him this week. Some European leaders had criticised their decision to engage in talks with Russia. Putin said dialogue was necessary to improve relations between Russia and European countries. He also said Moscow was ready to make efforts to improve relations with Europe.