During his annual end-of-year televised event, Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed questions regarding Russia's future and its relations with Western countries.
Comments on Western Relations
- When questioned by BBC Russia editor Steve Rosenberg, President Putin stated his call for increased respect from Western leaders.
- He asserted that "Western politicians created the current situation with their own hands," and that "they constantly talk about preparing for war with Russia."
Denial of Attack Plans
- President Putin also characterized reports of plans to attack Europe as "nonsense."