MOSCOW: President Vladimir Putin addressed journalists and citizens during Russia’s 2025 Year-End Conference, outlining Moscow’s economic priorities, foreign policy stance, and security concerns, while reiterating readiness for negotiations to end the conflict in Ukraine under clear security guarantees.
Vladimir Putin Highlights Economic Stability Over Rapid Growth
Speaking on Russia’s economic performance, Vladimir Putin said the country recorded GDP growth of 1% in 2025, while cumulative growth over the past three years reached 9.7%. He contrasted this with the eurozone’s 3.1% growth over the same period, arguing that Russia’s slower pace reflects a deliberate policy choice aimed at preserving macroeconomic stability and long-term economic quality.
According to Vladimir Putin, safeguarding sound fiscal fundamentals was preferable to pursuing short-term expansion that could undermine economic resilience.
Putin Warns Against Seizure of Russian Assets
Vladimir Putin strongly criticized Western discussions on seizing Russian assets, describing such actions as “robbery” rather than theft. He warned that openly confiscating sovereign assets would have grave consequences for the global financial system and damage the credibility of those involved.
He stressed that any assets taken would ultimately have to be returned, adding that Russia would defend its interests primarily through legal channels.
Russia Ready for Peace Talks, Putin Says
Rejecting claims that Moscow is obstructing peace initiatives, Vladimir Putin said Russia has repeatedly expressed willingness to make compromises. He argued that responsibility for moving negotiations forward now lies with the West, particularly Kyiv and its European backers.
Vladimir Putin stated that Russia was prepared for an immediate cessation of hostilities, provided its security concerns are guaranteed in both the medium and long term.
Call for New European Security Architecture
Addressing broader regional security, Vladimir Putin said efforts to build a new European security framework remain relevant. He recalled earlier proposals for a system without NATO expansion, involving the United States, Eastern Europe, and Russia on equal terms.
While acknowledging every state’s right to choose its means of defence, Vladimir Putin emphasized that such choices must not threaten the security of others, including Russia.
Putin Criticizes European Leadership and NATO Rhetoric
Vladimir Putin accused European political elites of using the image of a “hostile Russia” to conceal domestic economic and social failures. He questioned Europe’s commitment to its green agenda, noting the reopening of coal plants and renewed reliance on nuclear power.
He also expressed concern over what he described as aggressive rhetoric from NATO leadership, pointing out that Russia is not officially designated as an enemy in the updated US National Security Strategy, despite statements by NATO officials about preparing for war with Moscow.
Warning Over Kaliningrad and Regional Escalation
Commenting on security risks, Vladimir Putin said he hoped threats of a blockade of the Kaliningrad region would never materialize. However, he warned that any such actions would be countered and could lead to unprecedented escalation and a broader armed confrontation.
Putin Open to Equal Dialogue With West
Concluding his remarks, Vladimir Putin said Russia remains open to cooperation with the United Kingdom, Europe, and the United States, but only on the basis of equality and mutual respect. He added that such an approach would benefit all sides and help reduce global tensions.
Read related news here: https://thepublic.pk/world/
For more stories and insights, visit The Green Post
