The war in Ukraine was a major topic of discussion. Vladimir Putin stated right at the beginning of the press conference, which was aired on Russian television, that “Ukraine had triggered the war” after “things were at their worst” in 2022. He claims that even now, Ukraine “does not want to end the war peacefully”.
During the hours-long press conference, Ukraine and a possible end to the war were repeatedly brought up. Putin claims that “the ball to end the war is now in the West’s and Ukraine’s court”. He also denies responsibility for the many fatalities over nearly four years of the war.
“We do not consider ourselves responsible for the fatalities because we have not started this war”
Putin also commended the progress of the Russian army, which is “advancing on all fronts” and “pushing the enemy back in all directions.”
Allegedly, Russia would also refrain from attacking any other countries, as long as it is treated “with respect”. This statement follows Ukrainian President Zelenskyy’s claim on Friday morning that, in the case of a Ukrainian defeat, Russia would “inevitably” attack Poland next,
Vladimir Putin also issued threats against the EU because of the discussions on the possible use of Russian frozen assets. Following a question on the EU’s potential use of these assets, Putin qualified such a plan as a “theft” that would entail “grave consequences”. EU leaders agreed to provide further financial aid to Ukraine in the form of a 90 billion euros loan, which, following opposition by some countries, is borrowed against the EU’s budget and instead of using the frozen Russian assets.
Towards the end of the press conference, possible elections in Ukraine were addressed. Putin claimed that Russia would suspend its long-range missile strikes on the day of the elections, if those were to happen. He showed himself willing to create a certain sense of security around this topic, and Moscow’s demands to Washington include Ukraine holding new elections.
