Russian President Vladimir Putin answered the questions of representatives of press organizations from BRICS countries in the capital Moscow.
PALESTINE OPENING
Expressing that they expect Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to the BRICS summit, Putin said that he will consult with him about the developments in the region.
Stating that the Israeli administration expressed the opinion that the problem in the region can be solved if certain basic needs of the Palestinians are met, Putin said, “I think this is impossible and I also told this to our partners in Israel, the Palestine issue cannot be solved only through the economy.” he said.
Emphasizing that the problem in question also includes historical and spiritual issues, Putin said, “There are also issues related to the aspirations of people living in certain lands, and here the issue is much deeper and more complex.” made his assessment.
Explaining that the Middle East Quartet was working on Palestine, but this process failed due to the steps of the USA, Putin said, “We need to go back to this. We need to talk about how we can rebuild those lands, how we can bring back the people who left those lands. The Palestinians left those lands.” “They won’t, it’s their land, you need to understand that.” he said.
Emphasizing that Russia has had a traditional approach to Palestine since the Soviet Union period, Putin said, “I say this again, the main way to solve the Palestine problem is to establish a full-fledged Palestinian state.” he said.
“APPROPRIATE ANSWER WILL BE GIVEN”
Evaluating Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy’s statements that they could acquire nuclear weapons, Putin said that “this is another provocation”.
Pointing out that it is no longer difficult to produce “elite” weapons in the world, Putin said, “I do not know whether Ukraine is in a position to do this (nuclear weapons production). However, this is a dangerous provocation and any step taken in this direction will receive a similar reaction.” made his assessment.
Putin pointed out that the current political administration in Ukraine had made similar statements before and said, “Such a threat will lead to an appropriate response from Russia. Russia will not allow this to happen under any circumstances.” he said.
Expressing that they are open to peace talks on Ukraine, Putin stated that the talks can be held on the basis of the documents signed in Istanbul in 2022.
ISRAN-ISRAEL TENSION
Making evaluations about the increasing military tension between Iran and Israel, Putin said that they are in contact with both countries.
Stating that they want the “endless mutual attacks” to end, Putin said, “However, the answer always depends on the parties finding the points where they can make sacrifices. Is this possible in the current situation? I think my answer is yes, no matter how difficult it is.” he said.
Putin noted that Russia is ready to do whatever is necessary to reduce tensions if the parties request.
BRICS
Stating that BRICS is the driving force of the world economy, Putin said, “The economic growth of BRICS countries will become increasingly protected from external factors and interventions.” he said.
Putin stated that 30 countries want to cooperate with BRICS and said, “Our doors are open, we do not block anyone.” he said.
Pointing out that in addition to expansion, the issue of a new international payment system will be discussed at the BRICS Leaders Summit to be held next week, Putin said: “A system for the transfer of financial information between central banks, the equivalent of SWIFT, provides international payments.” he said.
Explaining that the process of establishing a common currency within the BRICS has not yet matured, Putin stated that the initiatives between the member countries are aimed at the use of local currencies.
Source: AA