Russian President Vladimir Putin said Friday that Moscow has shared peace proposals with Israel and Iran, seeking a resolution to the week-old conflict between the two countries.
Putin stated that he has secured Israel’s pledge to protect Russian personnel at Russia’s nuclear power plant in Iran’s Bushehr port. He also reached out to US President Donald Trump for support on this issue.
Meanwhile, Putin warned Ukraine against rejecting Russia’s peace conditions, stating that it could lose more territory if it continues to do so. The Kremlin has maintained good ties with both Iran and Israel, he added.
Putin expressed concern over the escalating conflict in Iran, saying Moscow is “strongly worried” about the situation. He also emphasized Russia’s commitment to supporting Iran’s right to peaceful nuclear energy.
The Russian military is extending a buffer zone in Ukraine’s Sumy region, which Putin said aims to create a security zone along the border with Ukraine.
Putin reiterated his claim that Russians and Ukrainians are “one people” but emphasized that Kyiv must accept Moscow’s territorial gains. He stated that Russia is willing to recognize Ukrainian sovereignty but only if Kyiv abandons its bid to join NATO.
The President also addressed concerns about a possible “dirty bomb” attack by Ukraine, saying it would be a “last mistake” that would trigger a strong response from Russia.
Putin concluded his speech by highlighting Russia’s economic performance, saying the country has managed to curb inflation and ease reliance on energy exports. He emphasized that “it mustn’t be allowed” for Russia to fall into recession despite some warning signs.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/russia-putin-ukraine-economy-b4555dfe8cdc05d0e98dc351e5846b67