Russian President Vladimir Putin stated on Wednesday that NATO places its geopolitical interests above those of other nations. He pointed out that Russia's interests were previously disregarded when the decision to expand was made, despite earlier agreements. In an interview with journalist Pavel Zarubin on "Russia24," Putin said, “What does this indicate? That they put their geopolitical interests above the interests of other nations, regardless of the nature of relations with those countries.”
Regarding Ukraine's potential NATO membership, Putin commented, “Yes, I know and see our observers' comments; I see our media's reaction and politicians'. Everyone is laughing a little about (Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky), saying it's just chatter, and nothing will happen. I have a different opinion. I have already said how NATO was expanded, and I already said that no one asked us.”
Earlier, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced that Ukraine has all the necessary tools to progress along the path leading to NATO membership. Relations between Russia and NATO have recently become tense due to the military alliance's increased presence near Russian borders, which Moscow considers a violation of the foundational document governing relations with NATO. Political disagreements over Ukraine and the annexation of Crimea have also led to a near-total halt in meetings between Russia and NATO in the "Russia-NATO" council format.
