However, the Russian president emphasized that Russia would protect its national interests in the conflict even during negotiations
Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Tuesday (December 19, 2023) that Russia was ready to talk to Ukraine, the United States and Europe to negotiate an end to the conflict with Kiev. However, Putin emphasized that Moscow would protect its national interests even if negotiations began. The information comes from Portal.
At a Defense Ministry meeting in Moscow this Tuesday (December 19), in the presence of highranking military officials, the Russian president stated that the country would not give up its interests, but did not intend to enter into a conflict with Europe. Declared that Ukraine's membership in NATO is unacceptable for Russia.
“Do you want to negotiate? Let them negotiate. But we will do this based on our national interests,” Putin said.
The meeting was attended by Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu and General Valery Gerasimov, as well as Director of the Federal Security Service Alexander Bortnikov.
Putin said Russian troops would maintain the objectives of the military operation, but acknowledged the need to improve the country's communications, reconnaissance and satellite capabilities.
Defense Minister Shoigu announced that the production of tanks, unmanned aerial vehicles and artillery shells has increased since February 2022.
It also announced the recruitment of 490,000 contract and volunteer soldiers in 2023, with plans to increase the number to 745,000 next year.