Putin’s Fifth Term Puts Emphasis on Dialogue with West, While Raising Concerns over Ukraine and Tactical Nuclear Weapons

Putin began his fifth term as president of Russia by offering dialogue to the West on matters of security and strategic stability. He emphasized the importance of dialogue with Western countries, and expressed his openness to strengthening good relations with all countries that see Russia as a reliable partner.

However, Putin also highlighted the possibility of dialogue with the West on these issues, but only under equal conditions and respect for each other’s interests. He reiterated Russia’s commitment to shaping a multipolar world and a system of equitable security.

Putin made it clear that the security of the Russian people is a top priority, and he recognized that the military campaign in Ukraine is still an issue for his fifth term. In response to Western threats and provocations, Putin ordered the Russian Armed Forces to carry out maneuvers with tactical nuclear weapons in the Southern Military District, which includes Ukrainian territories annexed by Moscow. He also summoned the ambassadors of France and the United Kingdom over statements regarding possible NATO troop deployments in Ukraine and Kiev’s right to attack Russian targets with Western weapons.