In speech, Putin says he is willing to talk to the West

Vladimir Putin, president of Russia re-elected for the 5th term, gave a speech at the inauguration ceremony in Moscow, this Tuesday (May 7, 2024). On the occasion, Putin thanked all Russian citizens and said that the country is open to dialogue with the West, but these countries need to choose whether they want dialogue or conflict.

In his speech, Putin said he was willing to talk to Western leaders, however, he said negotiations must be carried out with mutual respect.“We do not refuse dialogue with Western states. The choice is theirs: do they intend to continue trying to restrict Russia’s development, continue the policy of aggression and relentless pressure that they have pursued for years, or look for a path to cooperation and peace,” he said.

In reference to military power, Putin reaffirmed that countries will be able to choose stability. He also said that respect for Russia’s interests was necessary, “which arrogance, presumption and personal exclusivity”.

Regarding the war with Ukraine, Putin said it was important to remember the “tragic price of turbulence and internal upheaval”to guarantee the independence and socio-political system of the country.

At the end of his speech, he promised to use his powers as head of state to ensure that all Russian citizens who have proven loyalty and shown “your best human and professional qualities”receive leadership positions in public administration, the economy and other spheres.

The speech, considered restrained, was on the eve of the use of the Russian Foreign Ministry to threaten UK military targets if British weapons are used by Ukraine against Russia. Among NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) countries, only France sent a representative to the ceremony in Moscow.