Russian President Affirms Russia's Desire to End Fighting in Ukraine Soon Through Negotiations
Moscow, Oct 1 (KUNA) -- Russian President Vladimir Putin affirmed on Thursday that his country seeks to end the fighting in Ukraine as soon as possible through negotiations, noting that Russia had agreed to certain U.S. proposals concerning the Ukrainian file during the “Anchorage talks.” This came during a speech delivered by Putin at the plenary session of the Valdai International Discussion Club forum.
Putin stated that Russia appreciates U.S. President Donald Trump’s efforts to resolve the Ukrainian crisis, emphasizing Moscow’s hope for new prospects for cooperation with the United States. He added that relations between Moscow and Trump “have been good for many years,” expressing his hope that factors hindling Russia-U.S. relations would become a thing of the past.
Regarding developments on the ground, Putin said the situation along the contact line in the area of the special military operation was evolving rapidly, clarifying that “the pace of the Russian forces’ advance is accelerating and that Russia has consolidated control over 1,301 square kilometers during last September.” He further noted that “Russia has begun conducting air strikes on targets in Ukraine in response to Kyiv’s attacks on civilian infrastructure,” considering that “Russian strikes on Ukraine’s metallurgical industry were in response to Ukrainian strikes.” At the same time, he pointed out that “Russia has lost about 1 percent of its gross domestic product due to attacks on Russian oil refineries.”
On attacks on ships, Putin said Russia calls for freedom of navigation and adherence to existing rules, noting that his country does not seize vessels belonging to any party.
Regarding relations with China, Putin affirmed that they represent an important factor for global political stability, adding that the level of understanding with Chinese President Xi Jinping has reached a stage of mutual comprehension that requires few words. He said Russia supports holding a trilateral meeting with the United States and China, although the agenda for such a meeting requires further clarification, reiterating Moscow’s hope that factors clouding Russia-U.S. relations will become a thing of the past.
On Europe, Putin indicated that Russia wishes to continue cooperation with the continent, affirming its readiness to build relations with European countries and stating that it has no preconditions for restoring ties with European states. He said Russia will continue working with African countries on the basis of joint development, rather than following the colonial approach, considering that the African continent holds promising investment prospects given its young demographic base.
On the Palestinian file, Putin affirmed that Russia’s position on resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is not subject to current political considerations, stressing that a long-term settlement is impossible without establishing an independent Palestinian state with full sovereignty. (End) Dan / M.M.J
