Former US Secretary of State Henry Kissinger warned the West against its continuous attempts to defeat Russian forces in Ukraine, noting that this would have "serious consequences" for Europe's stability in the long run.

In his speech at the Davos Forum, on Monday, Kissinger explained that Russia was an "essential part of Europe" for over four centuries, noting that European leaders must "not lose sight of the longer-term relationship" or otherwise risk putting Russia in a permanent alliance with China.

Read next: Russia warns of instability in Europe

He also said, "I hope the Ukrainians will match the heroism they have shown with wisdom." 

Moreover, he warned against prolonging the war in Ukraine, stressing the need for pushing Kiev to return to negotiations and for establishing a bridge between Russia and Europe.

Kissinger urged Western leaders to make Ukraine sit at the negotiating table with Russia, even if the negotiating terms are less than the goals it wants to get out of the war.

Direct confrontation over Taiwan must be avoided

In another context, Kissinger called on the US authorities to avoid confrontation with China over Taiwan, stressing that any direct confrontation over Taiwan must be avoided. He added that Taiwan cannot be at the center of negotiations between the United States and China. 

He pointed out that the Taiwan dispute will not disappear, warning against building relations between Washington and Beijing on that basis only.

Kissinger further stressed the importance of a long-term relationship between China and the United States in the coming years. 

It is worth noting that US President Joe Biden said the United States will defend Taiwan militarily if "China were to invade the island," warning that China is "flirting with danger."

In response, China considered that the US pledge to "defend" Taiwan is "playing with fire."

Read next: Biden: US 'strategic ambiguity' policy on Taiwan unchanged