Russian President Vladimir Putin said that Moscow is the best place for a possible meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. “Next time, if someone wants to meet with us, we are ready. Moscow is the best place“, Putin stressed at the plenary session of the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, BTA reports.
Russia is ready to guarantee 100% security for Zelensky and representatives of Kiev if they decide to visit Moscow for peace talks in Ukraine. Putin noted that Kiev itself had suggested the contacts, after previously ruling out such a possibility.
NATO and military operations
The Russian leader said that if NATO troops were deployed in Ukraine, they would be considered a legitimate target for the Russian army. "If any forces appear on the ground in Ukraine, especially during military operations, they will be legitimate targets," Putin said.
Putin added that he saw no point in the presence of Western forces in Ukraine in achieving lasting peace, and stressed that Russia does not approve of Ukraine's possible membership in NATO.
Economy and cooperation
The president discussed opportunities for economic cooperation with the United States in Alaska, where Russia could offer technologies for oil and gas extraction. Putin also noted that many European companies are eager to return to Russia once political restrictions are lifted.
On relations with China, Putin highlighted 20 years of cooperation with leader Xi Jinping and joint projects in the Arctic and the Far East. He stressed the importance of partnerships with India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam.
Far East and Resources
The Russian president has ordered the government to develop a long-term strategy for the development of the Far Eastern Federal District until 2036. He said the region's coal reserves will last for 900 years, but modern technologies are needed to use them effectively. Putin also announced plans to develop rare earth metals, with a strategy to be presented by November.
Symbolism and Economic Policy
Putin also touched on Russia's symbolism, the bear, the double-headed eagle and the Amur tiger, and stressed the country's stable and predictable foreign and economic policies. He made veiled criticism of tariffs, which he said led to regional and national separatism.