Putin: Russia did not start the war and is not responsible

Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his views on military actions in Ukraine and international relations during an open dialogue held on December 19. This was reported by Zamin.uz.

He announced his readiness to ensure the security of elections in Ukraine and that the issue of not striking inside the country is being considered. According to the President, Russia did not start the war and is not responsible for the deaths of people.

He also emphasized that Ukrainians living in Russian territory should be given the opportunity to participate in the elections. Putin mentioned that Russian citizens have collected 83 billion rubles in charitable funds during the war.

Regarding questions about NATO and European countries, he described them as "empty words." Additionally, Putin recalled that Russia was not mentioned as an enemy in the United States' new National Security Strategy.

On the issue of asset confiscation between Russia and European countries, Russia stated that it has the right to defend itself in courts. He expressed readiness to cooperate with the United Kingdom, Europe, and the United States but stressed that these relations must be conducted on the basis of equality and mutual respect.