Moscow, Mar 8: Vladimir Putin has blamed Western countries for triggering the crisis in Ukraine, arguing that the conflict began with their support for political change in Kyiv and subsequent developments in eastern Ukraine. His remarks came at a time when the next round of US-brokered peace negotiations between Moscow and Kyiv remains uncertain.
In an interview for the Russian state television programme “Moscow, Kremlin, Putin,” excerpts of which were broadcast on the Rossiya 24 channel, Putin said the roots of the crisis lie in what he described as Western backing for a change of power in Ukraine. According to him, that moment set off a chain of events that later expanded into the broader conflict.
Putin argued that the crisis escalated following developments in Crimea and the eastern Ukrainian regions of Donbass and Novorossiya. He said these developments were a consequence of Western involvement rather than Russia’s actions. “These are not our actions — these are the actions of Western countries, including European countries,” he said, adding that those nations are now “reaping what they sowed.”
His comments came as uncertainty surrounds the possibility of new negotiations aimed at ending the war. The United States has attempted to facilitate dialogue between Russia and Ukraine, but diplomatic progress has remained slow amid continuing hostilities and deep political disagreements.
Putin also accused Ukraine’s leadership of influencing European countries in ways that undermine stability. Referring to the situation as “the tail wagging the dog,” he suggested that Volodymyr Zelenskyy has been able to push European allies into decisions that prolong the conflict. He pointed to Kyiv’s repeated requests for advanced weapons from Western countries and policies affecting regional energy supplies, including disputes involving Hungary.
While addressing geopolitical issues, Putin also delivered a message marking International Women’s Day, which is widely celebrated across Russia and many former Soviet states. In a televised address, he congratulated women in Russia and praised their contributions to society.
He expressed appreciation for women’s roles in families, workplaces and public life, saying Russian men traditionally celebrate the day with admiration and gratitude. Putin also highlighted the work of women in leadership positions and across different sectors of the country’s economy.
The Russian leader gave special recognition to women serving in the military and those working in regions connected to what Moscow calls its “special military operation,” particularly in Donbas, Novorossiya and Russia’s border regions. He acknowledged the difficult conditions under which they work and commended their service.
Putin also said the government would continue efforts to support women in balancing professional ambitions with family life, including policies aimed at helping them combine motherhood with career development and personal fulfilment. (PTI)
