Putin's Firm Stance: Russia vs. NATO, A New Cold War?

In a stern address at the Valdai Discussion Group in Sochi, President Vladimir Putin warned that Russia would respond swiftly if provoked by Europe. Putin accused NATO, led by the United States, of actively combating Russia in Ukraine, framing the conflict as a significant standoff between Russia and the West.

Putin claimed Russian forces were making advances along the Ukrainian front, dismissing any notion that Russia is merely a 'paper tiger'. Instead, he challenged NATO to match Russia's military prowess, emphasizing that Russia's countermeasures would be decisive and swift if challenged.

The Russian leader refuted assertions by U.S. President Donald Trump and urged Western elites to cease hysteria and focus on internal concerns. According to Putin, the current conflict symbolizes a pivotal point in Moscow's relations with Western powers post-Soviet Union era.

(With inputs from agencies.)