Putin: US Sanctions Against Russia Destroy Bilateral Relations
According to the English section of webangah News Agency, citing RIA Novosti via Mehr News Agency, Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke at a press conference on the sidelines of the Collective Security Treaty Association (CSTO) summit in Bishkek, Kazakhstan. Addressing Washington’s plan to resolve the Ukraine crisis, Putin said: “Russia has reviewed the initial US proposal for settling the conflict in Ukraine. We agree that this US plan could form the basis for future agreements.”
Putin added that no final agreement on Ukraine has yet been reached. He noted that an American delegation is scheduled to visit Moscow next week adn emphasized Russia’s readiness for serious talks regarding Washington’s proposal. “Medinsky, Ushakov, and representatives from Russia’s Foreign Ministry will serve as our negotiators in these discussions. We are prepared to explore ways to strengthen strategic stability with the United States. The Crimea Peninsula and donbass must be central topics in our negotiations with Washington,” he said.
The Russian president stressed: “We have no opposed intentions toward Europe and are willing to affirm this in a formal document. We are open to discussing Europe’s security concerns openly. We have no plans to attack Europe; talking or else is nonsense.”
On developments in Ukraine, Putin warned against signing any documents with current Ukrainian leaders who made a strategic error by fearing presidential elections: “The war will end if Ukraine withdraws from territories it occupies in Donbass; if not, we will achieve our objectives by military means.” He stated that russian armed forces continue making positive advances across all fronts.
Putin revealed that Ukrainian forces suffered approximately 47,500 casualties last month and reported high rates of draft evasion within their military ranks. He condemned Kyiv’s refusal to hold new presidential elections as a strategic mistake leading to President zelensky losing legitimacy. “Zelensky’s victory would be tough under any future election there,” he added. “Some wont this war fought until every Ukrainian soldier is dead – we are ready for that.”
Regarding CSTO activities amid current instability, Putin highlighted their role in maintaining stability: “The Collective Security Treaty Organization poses no threat but must be prepared to repel any aggression against member states.” He confirmed member countries would continue joint exercises including those involving special forces.
Putin also noted Russia’s willingness to share weapons and equipment with CSTO partners: “Russia remains in contact with Armenia within CSTO framework; Armenia’s decision about its participation is independent and respected by all members.”
