The Empire's relationship with Russia, on the other hand, offers precious little room for maneuver! As long as we are unwilling to relinquish the protection of the Danube Duchy for even a moment, the Russian Empire will continue to harbor animosity towards us!"
Upon saying this, Prince Metternich paused, casting a sidelong glance at those present. A trace of perplexity appeared on the faces of everyone, including Franz Joseph.
He continued, "Even if we were willing to abandon the protection of the Danube Duchy to make it a buffer zone between us and the Russian Empire, I doubt our relations would change in the slightest. Instead, they might become even more aggravated by our concessions!"
Prince Metternich's remarks undoubtedly dealt a critical blow to the ministers who still harbored the idea of playing both sides diplomatically.
"Advisor Metternich, do you think we should accept Jerome Bonaparte's goodwill?" Franz Joseph asked Metternich with knitted brows.
