Sochi: Russia's President Vladimir Putin declared on Thursday that the world is witnessing "fundamental shifts" in international relations, asserting that multipolarity is essential for ensuring global balance and stability. Speaking at the Valdai International Club, Putin emphasized that the era of dictates has ended, and unilateral decisions disregarding collective interests are no longer viable. He mentioned that the West's aspirations for dominance are bound to fail, yet reiterated Russia's willingness to cooperate with Western countries.
According to Kuwait News Agency, Putin revealed that Russia had expressed readiness to join NATO in 1954 and 2000, but its requests were declined by certain Western countries. He argued that the international system necessitates Russia's role as a balance of power and that global equilibrium is unattainable without Russia's involvement. While stressing that Moscow has no intention to attack NATO countries, he warned against provoking Russia.
Furthermore, Putin criticized the West's inability to provide a viable solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, asserting that Western diplomatic approaches are ineffective in resolving this issue. He dismissed claims that Russia might attack NATO as "nonsense" and affirmed that Moscow would respond promptly to any threats to its sovereignty.
Putin also highlighted that NATO members are supplying Ukraine with intelligence, weapons, and training. The Valdai International Club forum, held in its 22nd session in Sochi from September 29 until October 2, aimed to discuss radical changes in the international system, with a focus on multipolarity as a means to ensure global balance and stability.