Russian President Vladimir Putin suggested Thursday that there is a “chance” at “peace” with Ukraine, but said Kyiv’s warnings to airlines to avoid Russian airspace amounted to “state terrorism.”
“Ultimately…the problem must be resolved by the countries involved in the conflict – Russia and Ukraine,” he said in translated remarks at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, a city in Eastern Russia. “Is there a chance [at peace]? In my view, yes, there is.”
It comes after NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte on Wednesday said Russia is becoming “increasingly reckless,” citing missiles and drones crossing Europe’s eastern flank, and an alleged Russian hybrid attack at Germany’s Leipzig airport last month.
“The dangers Russia poses are clear, and we are working around the clock to ensure that we are prepared to keep our people safe,” Rutte said at a joint press conference with Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission.
“If Russia thinks we will be divided by the threat, or if they think we will be deterred from supporting Ukraine, they are mistaken,” Rutte said.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged airlines on Tuesday to avoid Russian airspace as Kyiv ramps up its drone operations.
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