Moscow:The Kremlin has criticized the European Union's defense policy, describing it as a strategy seeking confrontation with Russia, which it deems a "dead end."

According to Anadolu Agency, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov expressed concerns during a press briefing, accusing Europe of being "obsessed with plans to militarize the EU." He warned that the EU's move toward a military-political identity based on opposing the Russian Federation is problematic and historically unproductive.

Peskov's remarks came following France's recent test of a new ballistic missile from a nuclear-powered submarine. He noted that Russia remains vigilant in light of Europe's "aggressive rhetoric" and French President Emmanuel Macron's comments regarding the missile test's "loud and clear" message.

Despite these tensions, Peskov emphasized Russia's openness to dialogue with Europe and acknowledged security measures in response to the EU's military developments.

Additionally, Peskov addressed the potential for a phone call between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump, which Trump mentioned would occur "very soon" to discuss an outbreak in Russia's Irkutsk region. Peskov stated that while no specific agreement for the call exists, any initiative would be swiftly approved.

The situation in Irkutsk involves reports of a pneumonic plague outbreak, leading to quarantine measures. Russia's Rospotrebnadzor has described the situation as "calm," despite public health concerns. Meanwhile, the US CDC is monitoring the situation, and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has called for Russia to ensure transparency.

Peskov urged the public to rely on official statements from Rospotrebnadzor and confirmed that the World Health Organization has been informed appropriately.