Message from Putin on negotiations with Ukraine: We will make decisions based on Russia's interests

Russian President Vladimir Putin said that it is possible to resume negotiations with Ukraine. Putin stated that any decisions made in this direction would be evaluated in line with Russia's interests.

Holding a press conference following the 12th St. Petersburg International United Cultures Forum, Putin responded to questions regarding whether talks in a trilateral format between Russia, the US, and Ukraine might resume. Arguing that the negotiations conducted in Istanbul were halted by the Ukrainian side, Putin expressed that Moscow is carefully evaluating the process.

Putin alleged that Ukraine targeted Moscow and polling stations with drones during the elections on September 18-20, and has been carrying out attacks on oil refineries in Russia since June. Arguing that tensions in the Black Sea have also increased, Putin said that Ukraine is attempting a blockade in the region and that more than 100 ships have been damaged.

Stating that Russia has begun to respond harshly to these attacks, Putin linked the emergence of a potential ceasefire in some areas to this. Putin argued that a mutual cessation of attacks in the energy sector and airspace has been discussed, but that the escalation of tension has worsened the consequences for Ukraine.

Steps toward a compromise and the proposal to resume negotiations are on the table. All of this is possible. However, we will carefully evaluate how we will respond to what they have done. We will make all decisions in this direction, including the resumption of negotiations, in line with Russia's interests.

HE ALSO TOUCHED UPON EUROPE AND US-CHINA TALKS

Putin claimed that European countries are deliberately escalating the situation, stating, "We are not preparing to clash with Europe. We have no such plan. There is no reason to escalate the situation with Europe." He also alleged that Europe is using Ukraine as a tool in the struggle against Russia.

Regarding the meeting between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Washington, Putin said they welcome the negotiations between the US and China. Stating that developments between the two countries could affect the global economy and the Russian economy, Putin noted that the trade volume between China and Russia is 240 billion dollars.

When asked whether he would attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Leaders' Summit to be held in Shenzhen, China, in November, Putin said he intends to attend the summit but that the decision will depend on the domestic situation in Russia.

News Source: 12punto