Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday launched a blistering attack on European leaders, accusing them of stoking “war hysteria” and manufacturing fears of a Russian invasion of Nato. He dismissed the idea of Moscow waging war against the alliance as “nonsense, plucked out of thin air,” and warned that Russia would respond forcefully to any provocation.

“It’s impossible to believe that Russia will attack Nato,” Putin declared. He recalled that Moscow had twice sought to join the alliance but was turned down. “Our history has proven, weakness is unacceptable. If someone seeks to compete with us in the military sphere, let them try. Russia has proved more than once that we respond fast, and our response will be convincing.”

Citing recent remarks about strengthening Germany’s military

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