Moscow: Russian President Vladimir Putin stated on Monday that European countries, along with others, could participate in negotiations to resolve the conflict in Ukraine.
In an interview broadcast on state television, Putin agreed with several points made by US President Donald Trump but emphasized that European nations could also contribute to ending the violence in Ukraine.
When asked about his views on European countries insisting on playing a role in Ukraine talks, Putin responded, "I see nothing wrong with this." He added, "Well, probably no one can demand anything here. Especially not from Russia. But their participation in the talks process is in demand."
Putin claimed that European countries "themselves rejected contacts with us," as they wanted Ukraine to prevail on the battlefield. "If they want to come back, they’re welcome," he said, noting that Russia is open to the involvement of European nations in the discussions.
Additionally, Putin highlighted Russia’s respect for the perspectives of its allies in the BRICS bloc—comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and other emerging economies. "We are grateful to all our partners who raise these questions, who aim for peace to be achieved," he said. "That’s why I’m saying that not only Europeans but other countries have the right and can take part. And we view this calmly."
He criticized the "emotional" reaction of European countries to a recent meeting between Russian and US officials in Riyadh, describing it as part of efforts to improve "the level of trust" between the two nations. Putin mentioned that during both his recent phone call with Trump and the Riyadh meeting, "problems related to the Ukrainian crisis were touched on," though they were not discussed in depth. "We just agreed that we will approach this," he said.
Putin characterized Trump’s proposals on Ukraine as grounded in "cold reasoning," noting that as a newly elected president, Trump has his "hands free."
The Russian leader also mocked Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, following Trump’s description of him as highly unpopular and a "dictator." Regarding Europe’s critical reaction to Trump’s comments, Putin claimed that Zelensky is "becoming a toxic figure" among the armed forces for issuing "ridiculous orders" and is "becoming toxic in society as a whole." He suggested that former Ukrainian military commander-in-chief Valery Zaluzhny, now Kyiv’s ambassador to London, has a significantly higher approval rating than Zelensky, describing him as a "possible rival."
Putin also supported Trump’s proposal that Russia, the United States, and China should halve their military budgets. "I think it’s a good idea. The US would cut by 50 percent, and we would cut by 50 percent, and then China would join if it wanted," he said.
(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)
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