Putin's statement on Turkey: The most reliable partner in energy

Putin made assessments regarding developments in the energy sector in an interview with the Russian state channel Rossiya-1.

Speaking about his interview with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson, Putin said, "It is important for our audience and those abroad to understand how sensitive and important everything happening in Ukraine is for our country, our way of thinking, and our state. While for them this is a development concerning their tactical position, for us, it is a matter of fate, a matter of life and death."

TRANSFORMATION IN EUROPE AND RUSSIA'S ENERGY SECTOR

Evaluating developments in the energy field, Putin said that Western countries aimed to cause permanent damage to the Russian economy by stopping the purchase of Russian gas.

However, explaining that the process has developed in the opposite direction, Putin said, "They are the ones who have entered an irreversible process. The manufacturing industry (in Europe), including in the US, is shifting to other countries where more favorable conditions are created and energy resources are cheaper. Because they have to liquefy natural gas, then send it across the ocean, and then regasify it. All of this creates additional costs."

Putin stated that the German government is causing massive damage to the future of its own economy with its current policy.

Pointing out that accusations have been directed at Russia regarding restricting energy shipments, Putin said, "They kept saying that Russia was not providing (energy resources) or was restricting them. We are not restricting anything; we are providing everything. The most reliable partner has been the Turks. Look, shipments are being made via TurkStream."

Putin indicated that Europe should decide for itself whether or not to buy Russian gas, stating, "If they need it, they will buy it; if not, we will manage without them."

Putin stated that Russia now prefers different routes for natural gas exports instead of Europe, saying, "We are working more on using these energy resources to solve internal problems, not only in the housing and public utilities system but also for the Russian economy and industry."

Explaining that Russia earned more money during the period when it exported more gas to Europe, Putin said, "But on the other hand, the less dependent we are on the energy sector, the better, because the non-energy part of the economy is growing much faster than before."