a prerequisite for improving relations
Putin said Russia is in favor of building ties with the US if it is based on the principles of equality, respect for sovereignty and non-interference in each other’s internal affairs. The President also commented on Russia’s strained relations with the European Union (EU). He said that the EU no longer aimed to develop economic cooperation and promote integration on the European continent, but was currently focused on starting a geopolitical confrontation with Russia.
policy of confrontation with Russia
Putin expressed hope that it would eventually be possible to build rapprochement with the European Union and that the logic of mutual cooperation would prevail. Putin presented credentials to 17 new foreign ambassadors, including US envoy Lynn Tracy and European Union representative Roland Garros, at a Kremlin ceremony on Wednesday. He said Russia would continue to insist on “equality and respect for sovereignty” in the relationship. Putin also accused the European Union of choosing a policy of confrontation with Russia.
accused of provoking countries
Putin made no mention of the warnings given by the US. The US warned that Putin was preparing an attack on Ukraine months before the war started in February 2022. Russian officials have repeatedly denied that any airstrikes were planned by Russia. The Ukraine war has become Europe’s largest conflict since World War II. Putin has accused the US of inciting former Soviet countries against his country over the years.