Dmitry Peskov called the EU’s course a dead end and said the bloc was shaping its security policy around confrontation with Russia. France said the unarmed launch confirmed the submarine Le Vigilant could operate the missile system.
The Kremlin spokesman made the remarks on Wednesday, a day after French President Emmanuel Macron watched the test launch of the new M51.3 intercontinental missile. AFP reported the comments, citing Romania’s Agerpres news agency.
Peskov said the EU was seeking to turn itself from an economic bloc into a political and military one, and was basing its defense identity on confrontation with Russia. He said Moscow remained vigilant, was taking measures to protect its security and remained open to dialogue.
French forces launched the M51.3 from the nuclear-powered submarine Le Vigilant off Finistère in Brittany. The missile did not carry a nuclear warhead. France’s Armed Forces Ministry said the launch, part of Operation Smertrios, confirmed that the submarine could operate its missile system after a maintenance and repair period.
Reuters, citing sources at France’s Defence Ministry, reported that the missile can travel about 10,000 kilometers. It could theoretically reach all of Russia, including the Far East. Paris said the test was conducted in accordance with international commitments.
The exchange of statements comes amid heightened tensions in Europe. Several European countries accuse Moscow of hybrid attacks. Last week, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Russia did not intend to attack other countries, but would defend itself with all available means if NATO states struck Russian territory.