Tulsi Gabbard Says Russia Lacks Ability to Invade Europe as Debate Over Ukraine Peace Plan Grows

The US Director of National Intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard, said Russia does not have the power to conquer Ukraine or invade Europe. She made the comment after reports claimed the US intelligence community backed EU and NATO fears of a wider Russian threat. Her remarks came on Saturday as peace talks on the Ukraine war continued in Florida.

According to AP and Reuters reports, US and Russian officials have both signaled progress in talks led by the Trump administration. Gabbard said some groups were trying to block these efforts by spreading false claims. She said these claims were used to push for more military action.

Tulsi Gabbard Challenges Claims of Russian Invasion Threat

Gabbard said the US intelligence community does not see Russia as able to invade Europe. She said Russia also lacks the strength to hold Ukraine by force. She argued that this point has been clear inside US intelligence for months.

According to Reuters, European leaders still warn that Russia seeks wider influence. But Gabbard said these warnings do not match US intelligence assessments. She said the claims are pushed by people she called “warmongers.” She said they want to block peace efforts now underway.

Gabbard posted her comments on X. She said some in the media repeat these claims without proof. She said this harms talks in Florida between US and Russian teams. The talks aim to end the nearly four‑year war in Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said his team is also in Florida. He said the talks are moving “quickly.” He said both sides are trying to find a path to end the fighting. According to AP, a Kremlin envoy said progress was “constructive.”

What Gabbard’s Statement Means for the Ukraine Peace Process

Gabbard’s remarks deepen the split between US officials and some European leaders. Her comments also come as pressure rises to show results in the Florida talks. The conflict has taken a heavy toll on Ukraine. It has also strained Europe’s economy and security policy.

If Russia cannot invade Europe, as Gabbard says, support for more weapons could weaken. But European leaders warn that Russia’s aims remain unclear. They say peace talks must be backed by firm security guarantees.

For the US, the talks in Florida mark a major test of the Trump administration’s plan. US officials say private meetings have reduced tensions on some issues. But they warn that key points remain unsettled.

Impact on Europe and US Policy Going Forward

The dispute over Russia’s military strength shapes policy choices. It affects how much aid Ukraine may receive. It also shapes long‑term plans for European defense.

For now, both US and Ukrainian officials say talks will continue. They say progress is steady but slow. The coming weeks may decide whether the war edges closer to a deal.

The debate over Tulsi Gabbard and her comments will stay central as the peace talks continue. Her claim about Russia’s limited power may shape US policy. It may also affect Europe’s stance if talks move ahead.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What did Tulsi Gabbard say about Russia’s capability?

She said Russia cannot conquer Ukraine or invade Europe. She said US intelligence does not see such a threat. She argued that claims of invasion are false.

Q2: Why did Gabbard make these remarks?

She reacted to reports claiming the US intelligence community backed EU and NATO warnings. She said these reports were wrong. She said they harm peace efforts.

Q3: Are peace talks still going on?

Yes. Talks are underway in Florida. US, Russian, and Ukrainian teams are working to find common ground.

Q4: What has Ukraine said about the talks?

Zelenskyy said talks are moving quickly. He said his team is working with the American side. He said progress is steady.

Q5: How are European leaders reacting?

Many European leaders still warn of Russian threats. They want strong security steps. They say Russia’s goals remain uncertain.

Trusted Sources: AP News, Reuters, BBC News