Russia does not want war, which is why it has put forward ideas on security, Russian President Vladimir Putin said, RIA Novosti reported.

“As for war in Europe ... about whether we want it or not? Of course not. That is why we put forward proposals for a negotiation process, the result of which should be an agreement on ensuring equal security for everyone, including our country,” Putin said.

His remarks came during a press conference after talks with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, responding to a question about whether there would be war in Europe.

For his part, Olaf Scholz responded to the question by pointing out the importance of using all diplomatic options to resolve the conflict. At the same time he stressed the necessity of negotiations in the tripartite contact group.

Scholz called the reported withdrawal of some Russian troops from the borders with Ukraine a "good sign" and expressed hope that this would be followed by the return of the remaining units to their deployment sites.