Territorial Exchanges and Talks on European Security

A very important question: now, a significant part is under Russian control of the territory of Kharkiv Oblast, as well as other regions.

Was the exchange of these territories discussed during the negotiations and what territories would they be exchanged for?

The issue of possible territorial exchanges is periodically floated by various sides.

Let me remind you of the history. After Ukraine's incursion into Kursk Oblast, a decision was made, as our president has said more than once, to create a security zone along the border with the Russian Federation.

That zone is quite substantial now, it is expanding, and it will continue to expand.

I see no possibility whatsoever of exchanging these territories.

Because, once again, as our leader put it so aptly, wherever the foot of a Russian soldier has set foot, that is ours.

And as the whole history of Russia has shown, every time we showed a desire to make concessions, to make some compromises that disadvantage us, to make a show of peacefulness and pliability, well, every time we, to avoid some hardships, as we thought,

take steps toward our opponents, in the end, it turns out that we suffer even greater hardships.

Well, as they say, we get war and disgrace.

But whenever Russia showed resolve and confidence in its own strength, in the end, all hardships were overcome, and a time of lasting peace began, of tranquility and development, for us and for our neighbors alike.

So wherever the Russian flag is raised, it must not be lowered.

The task is different, and we spoke about it today.

The task is to create such a comprehensive security system in Europe, that will become a new, modern Yalta and Potsdam, imbued with the spirit of Helsinki of 1975, and that will meet the demands of today’s realities, and be fair.

If we manage to create such a security system, then we will ensure peace in Europe for decades, and perhaps even for centuries.

That is our main task. At the very start of our meeting, you said some very cautious and important words: that we would try to move closer to achieving peace.

Have we moved closer?

I think so. I think so. But right now, a great deal depends on all the parties involved.

A great deal depends on Ukraine, on the position of the United States, and on whether Europe comes to its senses.

In any case, all the goals we set will be achieved.

Thank you very much. Are you satisfied? I’ll be there only when we win and sign a peace agreement on our terms.