Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized in a Thursday interview that Russia is prepared to defend its interests “to the end” but has no intention of expanding conflict beyond Ukraine’s borders to nations like Poland and Latvia.
This marked Putin’s first interview with an American journalist since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine almost two years ago.
Putin underscored that Western leaders have recognized the futility of seeking a strategic defeat against Russia and are grappling with the next steps. “We are open to dialogue,” he asserted.
Regarding detained U.S. journalist Evan Gershkovich of the Wall Street Journal, Putin expressed optimism about reaching an agreement for his release from Russian custody, where he has been held for nearly a year on espionage charges.
During a lengthy conversation with conservative talk-show host Tucker Carlson, Putin dismissed the idea of deploying Russian troops to Poland unless provoked by a Polish attack, emphasizing Russia’s lack of interest in conflicts with neighboring countries.
“Only in one case, if Poland attacks Russia. Why? Because we have no interest in Poland, Latvia or anywhere else. Why would we do that? We simply don’t have any interest,” he said.
Putin lamented Ukraine’s hesitance to finalize a deal to end hostilities during talks in Istanbul in April 2022, which he attributed to the withdrawal of Russian troops from near Kyiv.
He urged Ukraine and the U.S. to prioritize negotiations, highlighting the need to address Russia’s steadfast defense of its interests.
“Well now let them think how to reverse the situation,” he said. “We’re not against it. It would be funny if it were not so sad that. This endless mobilization in Ukraine, the hysteria, the domestic problems, sooner or later it will result in an agreement.”
The interview coincided with U.S. lawmakers’ deliberations over additional funding for Ukraine’s defense efforts and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy’s appointment of a new army chief.
Despite a procedural advancement in the U.S. Senate for a $61 billion aid package to Ukraine, its fate remains uncertain in the Republican-controlled House of Representatives, where some members, particularly those aligned with former President Donald Trump, have opposed further assistance to Ukraine.
