Vladimir Putin stressed that Russia simply has no choice but to protect our people.
Photo: REUTERS
Vladimir Putin, in his interview for the All-Russian State Television and Radio Broadcasting Company, answered questions about what, in his opinion, became decisive in major confrontations in 2022. These are the highlights of the president’s statement.
ON ATTEMPTS TO SOLUTION PEACE
We have been doing this since 2014. We have always strived to ensure that all disputes that arise are resolved peacefully. But the other side was set up differently. They began to carry out harsh military actions. We had to stand up for the people, for the protection of the Crimeans. We did not stage a coup in Ukraine. Have begun! The policy of the partners is based on the separation. Our goal is to unite the Russian people.
ON WHAT RUSSIA PROTECTS ON THE LINE
– I don’t think it’s dangerous. I think we are going in the right direction. We protect the interests of our citizens. And we simply have no choice but to protect our people. But we are ready to negotiate with all participants in the process on acceptable results. And it is not us who refuse to negotiate, but them.
ON MATERIAL AND SPIRITUAL
– We have a different attitude to life, a different philosophy. We have different approaches. There is a material focus, we have a spiritual one.
ON TRUE PATRIOTISM
– There is nothing surprising from the point of view of someone who behaved like a not true patriot. There are always people in any society who act in their own interest. On personal plans. To be honest, I don’t blame them. Every person has the right to choose. But as for the main part – people who are ready to give everything for the good of the Motherland – there is nothing unusual for me here. But this once again convinces me that we have a special country. This is confirmed throughout the history of the country. And today again.
