According to Russian International News Agency and Russia Satellite News Agency, on June 28 local time, Russian President Putin stated in an interview that it is illogical for Western countries to seek Russia's strategic failure while simultaneously discussing negotiations.
Putin, TASS
Putin said, "As is well known, the West seeks to make Russia suffer strategic defeat. There are some statements claiming that this is no longer their goal, but no one has officially removed it from the agenda. Since it is known that Ukraine is occupying more and more territory, and 'liberating' them means achieving victory, why does the West still need a ceasefire? Why does it often mention and hope to participate in negotiations? If that is indeed the case, Western leaders simply need to wait—the goal of making Russia suffer strategic defeat seems to be achieved on its own."
Putin continued, "Then let them wait. Our troops will do their own jobs well and will do everything in their power to achieve the goals of the special military operation."
In addition, Putin also commented on the remarks of EU leaders regarding their welcome of the Ukrainian forces' so-called 'progress' on the battlefield.
Putin said, "Indeed, some have mentioned that the Ukrainian army has made progress on the battlefield and in 'liberating' territories. The question is, where? Which territories have been 'liberated'?"
He pointed out that sometimes, Ukrainian reconnaissance and sabotage groups would infiltrate areas controlled by Russian forces, but they were quickly eliminated. “But when it comes to ‘liberating’ certain territories—I don’t know about that.”
