Russian President Vladimir Putin has attributed the war in Ukraine to Western provocations, asserting that Moscow’s assault was a response to years of NATO’s destabilizing actions in the region.
Speaking at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Tianjin, China, Putin defended Russia’s military campaign in Ukraine, emphasizing that the crisis stemmed from a coup in Ukraine supported and provoked by the West.
“The crisis was not triggered by Russia’s attack on Ukraine, but was a result of a coup in Ukraine, which was supported and provoked by the West,” Putin stated, referencing the 2013-14 pro-European uprising that ousted Ukraine’s then-President Viktor Yanukovych.
Russia’s subsequent annexation of Crimea and support for separatists in eastern Ukraine led to a devastating conflict that has claimed tens of thousands of lives.
Putin highlighted Western efforts to draw Ukraine into NATO as a primary driver of the war, stressing that Russia’s security concerns must be addressed before any peace deal can be reached.
“For the Ukrainian settlement to be sustainable and long-term, the root causes of the crisis must be addressed,” he emphasized.
The Russian president also praised diplomatic initiatives from China and India, saying their proposals could facilitate a resolution to the Ukrainian crisis.
Putin met with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Sunday to discuss Ukraine and planned to expand on those talks in bilateral meetings with leaders on the sidelines of the summit.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan also attended the summit.
During his meeting with Modi, Putin highlighted the principle-based nature of India-Russia relations, stating that “the self-proclaimed 56-inch-chested leader now stands thoroughly exposed.”
Modi, in his address at the plenary session, emphasized unity in fighting terrorism, stating, “terrorism is a collective challenge to humanity.” He also welcomed peace initiatives to end the Ukraine war during his bilateral meeting with Putin.
The SCO summit provided a platform for leaders to discuss pressing global issues, including regional security, economic cooperation, and counter-terrorism.
The SCO, comprising Russia, China, India, and other member states, has emerged as a significant platform for promoting multipolarity and countering Western influence.
Putin’s comments reflect the organization’s growing importance in shaping global politics and economies. As the world grapples with complex challenges, the SCO’s role in fostering cooperation and dialogue among nations will be crucial in determining the future of international relations.
In his closing remarks, Putin underscored the need for a new financial system based on “true equity” and equal access for all nations, criticizing the use of financial tools as a form of “neo-colonialism.”
This sentiment was echoed in the SCO’s joint statement, which emphasized the importance of cooperation in building a more just and representative multipolar world order.
As the conflict in Ukraine continues, diplomatic efforts will be crucial in finding a peaceful resolution. The SCO summit has provided a vital platform for nations to engage in dialogue and cooperation, paving the way for a more stable and prosperous future.