Putin blames ‘third’ countries for war in Ukraine in speech

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Russian President Vladimir Putin delivered a speech and presented awards at a military rally on Wednesday. Kremlin/UPI Pool Photo | License picture

Dec. 21 (UPI) – Russian President Vladimir Putin said his country was not responsible for the war in Ukraine during a televised address to military leaders on Wednesday.

“What is happening is of course a tragedy, our common tragedy, but it is not the result of our policy,” Putin said, insisting that the war was “the result of the policy of third countries. .. who have always fought for it”. , the disintegration of the Russian world.”

Putin called Ukraine a “brotherly nation” and called the Russian forces fighting there “heroes”.

Putin referenced Russia’s nuclear arsenal during his speech, saying the Saramat hypersonic nuclear-capable missile, known as “Satan II”, may soon be ready for deployment.

“We will continue to develop and strengthen our armed forces, taking into account potential military threats and risks,” he said.

Russian Defense Committee Chairman Aleksey Zhuravlyov previously used the Saramat missile as a threat against the West.

“If the United States threatens our state, that’s fine: here’s the Sarmat for you, and there will be nuclear ashes of you if you think Russia shouldn’t exist. And Finland says it is one with the United States. stand in line,” he told Russia 1 in May.

Putin said the partial mobilization he ordered in September “revealed some issues” which he said “should be resolved soon.”

“It’s clear that the reaction of people who see problems – and there are always problems in such important and complex work – can be emotional,” he said.

“I call on the Department of Defense to be mindful of all civilian initiatives, including heeding criticism and responding appropriately, in a timely manner.”

Putin’s speech comes as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visits Washington, DC, on his first trip outside the country since the full-scale invasion in February.

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