Putin Calls Strikes on Ukraine ‘Retaliatory’, Says Talks Remain Possible

Dragon Media News Desk

Russian President Vladimir Putin described recent military strikes on Ukraine as a response to what he called Ukrainian provocations. Answering reporters’ questions in St Petersburg on Friday, he claimed that the strikes had prompted the Ukrainian side to raise the possibility of limited ceasefires concerning energy infrastructure and airspace. His account of the strikes, their impact and Ukraine’s proposals has not been independently verified.

Putin said proposals to resume negotiations with Ukraine had not been ruled out, but that Russia would consider its next steps carefully in light of recent events. He accused Ukraine of escalating tensions. He did not specify when talks on a limited ceasefire or a broader settlement might begin, or under what conditions.

Russia has no plans to initiate military action against Europe, Putin also said. Referring to concerns expressed in the Baltic states, he maintained that Russia had neither a reason nor a motive to escalate tensions with Europe. He said Russia would defend the rights of its citizens abroad within the framework of international law.

Putin welcomed talks between the United States and China, arguing that agreements between the world’s two largest economies would affect the global economy, including Russia’s. He also said he had been invited to the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in China and intended to attend. His final decision, he added, would depend on the situation in Russia.