Putin Claims Entire Ukraine as Russian Territory: "Where Russian Soldiers Stand, That's Ours"
Russian president, Putin, asserted: "That territory where a Russian soldier is stationed, claims it as our own."
In a shocking display at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, Russian President Vladimir Putin made a bold claim, asserting that the whole of Ukraine rightfully belongs to Russia. He exalted the unity between Russians and Ukrainians, stating, "In that sense, all of Ukraine is ours" - a blatant denial of Ukrainian sovereignty and independence.
Putin's controversial statements gained applause from the audience. He further elaborated, "Where the foot of a Russian soldier steps, that is ours," underscoring his intentions to keep the occupied territories even after the conflict's resolution.
In an unnerving first, Putin also hinted at potential expansion, mentioning the city of Sumy near the Russian border. Although he clarified that capturing Sumy was not their objective, he didn’t entirely rule it out, citing concerns over Ukrainian shelling as a reason for creating a buffer zone. This suggests continued Russian ambitions to encroach upon the currently occupied territories in eastern and southern Ukraine.
Ukrainian officials were quick to condemn Putin's statements, with President Volodymyr Zelensky interpreting the remarks as an open declaration of intent to seize all of Ukraine. Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha characterized Russian forces as bringers of destruction, emphasizing that peace would only be achievable through intensified Western support for Ukraine's defense and harsher sanctions against Russia.
These statements by Putin underscore his determined stance to maintain or expand Russian military presence in Ukraine, deeply undermining prospects for peace and reinforcing the ongoing conflict dynamics. The international community is urged to push back against Putin's expansionist ambitions.
Sources: ntv.de, ses/dpa, Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Related Topics:
- Territorial Disputes
- Vladimir Putin
- Ukrainian-Russian Conflict
- Wars and Conflicts
In the wake of Vladimir Putin's assertion that Ukraine is Russian territory, the international community is encouraged to refute Putin's expansionist ambitions, as his continued military presence in Ukraine threatens economic and social cohesion within the region, potentially leading to further war-and-conflicts. Employment policies must address the uncertainties arising from such disputes to ensure a stable economic future for the affected communities.
Meanwhile, the general news media should continue to report on Putin's controversial politics regarding Ukraine, keeping the international community informed about the deteriorating situation and highlighting the need for peaceful resolution through political diplomacy.
