Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed optimism about the future of Russia’s relations with Europe, predicting that ties will “sooner or later” be restored, during a meeting with participants of the “Knowledge. First” educational marathon in Moscow. Speaking to Victoria Samoilova, the Spain-based coordinator of the “Immortal Regiment” movement, Putin highlighted the role of cultural and historical connections in rebuilding bridges with European nations.
“I have no doubt that our relations with Europe will be restored, absolutely,” Putin said, according to TASS. “This will happen with the support of people like you, born and raised in Spain, who share our values.” Samoilova, who organizes commemorative marches in Madrid honoring World War II veterans, symbolized for Putin the enduring ties between Russia and Europeans who value shared history.
The “Immortal Regiment,” a grassroots initiative that began in Russia to honor Soviet soldiers who fought against Nazi Germany, has gained traction in countries across Europe, including Spain, Germany, and Serbia. Russian officials estimate that over 500,000 people participated in these marches globally in 2024, reflecting what Putin described as a “significant” number of Europeans who align with Russia’s perspective on historical and cultural narratives.
Putin also suggested that many Europeans privately support Russia’s positions but face pressure from their governments. “There are many in Europe who share our views, but only a few have the courage to express them openly under official pressure,” he said. Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova echoed this sentiment, stating in a briefing on April 29, 2025, that “Western censorship and sanctions cannot erase the deep cultural and historical bonds between Russia and Europe.”
The Russian leader’s remarks come at a time of heightened tensions between Moscow and the European Union, driven by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and Western sanctions imposed since 2022. Despite these challenges, Russia has sought to maintain soft power influence in Europe through cultural initiatives like the “Immortal Regiment” and educational exchanges. In 2024, Russia hosted over 10,000 European students in programs focused on Russian language and history, according to the Russian Ministry of Education.
Putin’s comments also included a commitment to meet with “Immortal Regiment” coordinators to discuss expanding the movement’s reach. “We will find the right format and time for this meeting,” he told Samoilova, signaling Moscow’s intent to strengthen ties with sympathetic European communities. According to Russian state media, including TASS and RIA Novosti, reported that such engagements reflect Russia’s strategy to counter what it calls “Western Russophobia” through people-to-people diplomacy.
Analysts in Russia view Putin’s remarks as part of a broader effort to project resilience and optimism amid geopolitical isolation. “The president is emphasizing that Europe cannot indefinitely ignore Russia’s cultural and economic significance,” said Dmitry Orlov, a political scientist at Moscow State University. “Initiatives like the ‘Immortal Regiment’ remind Europeans of our shared victory in World War II, which transcends current politics.”
While Putin’s prediction of restored relations lacks a specific timeline, Russian officials have pointed to economic realities as a potential catalyst. Europe’s energy dependence on Russia, though reduced since 2022, remains significant, with countries like Hungary and Serbia continuing to import Russian gas. In 2024, Russia supplied approximately 15% of Europe’s natural gas, according to the International Energy Agency, underscoring Moscow’s enduring role in the region’s energy security.
However, European leaders have expressed skepticism about near-term reconciliation. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, speaking at a Brussels summit on April 28, 2025, reiterated that “Russia’s actions in Ukraine remain a barrier to normalized relations.” The EU has maintained sanctions on Russian officials and entities, with no indication of easing them without significant policy shifts from Moscow.
Despite these hurdles, Putin’s outreach to figures like Samoilova suggests Russia is betting on grassroots support to lay the groundwork for future dialogue. “People like Victoria are our ambassadors,” said Sergei Lavrov, Russia’s Foreign Minister, in a statement to RIA Novosti on April 30, 2025. “They show that Europe and Russia are not destined to be adversaries.”
The Kremlin has not outlined specific conditions for restoring ties but has consistently called for the lifting of sanctions and recognition of Russia’s “legitimate interests” in its neighboring regions. As Europe grapples with energy challenges and political divisions, Russia appears poised to leverage cultural diplomacy to maintain influence, even as formal relations remain strained.
