Ukraine Conflict Pretext To Take Various Steps Against Countries Having Economic Ties With Russia: Putin

Vladimir Putin asserts that Western sanctions related to the Ukraine conflict are politically motivated attacks on economically aligned nations, particularly emphasising the sanctions on Brazil and India’s economic pressures.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday said that the Ukraine conflict is used as a "pretext" by Western nations to impose broader sanctions against Moscow.

During a media briefing after his four-day trip to China, he stated that these measures are more about targeting countries with strong economic ties to Russia than addressing the actual situation in Ukraine.

Putin highlighted the imposition of additional tariffs on Brazil earlier in August as an example of sanctions unrelated to the Ukraine conflict. He noted that these actions are often justified under false pretenses, serving political or economic agendas rather than genuine concerns over Ukraine.

Economic Imbalances and Sanctions

The Russian leader pointed out that many sanctions stem from growing economic imbalances between Western countries, especially the United States, and major economies like India, China, and Brazil. He mentioned that while there is a trade imbalance between the US and India or China, Brazil faced tariffs without any direct link to Ukraine.

"There is a trade disproportion between the United States and India or with China," Putin stated. "But there is no situation between Brazil and the United States, for example." He emphasized that such issues should be resolved through negotiations rather than punitive measures.

Impact on Global Trade

The global economic landscape has been affected by tariff policies introduced by US President Donald Trump. These policies have led to tensions with several countries, notably due to tariffs imposed on India and China. New Delhi is particularly concerned about these developments amid rising economic uncertainties.

India faces significant challenges following the US decision to impose a 50 per cent tariff on its imports. This includes an additional 25 per cent due to India's purchase of Russian crude oil. Washington claims this purchase supports Moscow's efforts in its conflict with Ukraine.

In response to questions about Europe's upcoming sanctions targeting Russia and its trading partners, Putin remarked that they didn't discuss it much because it doesn't concern them directly. He reiterated that the Ukraine situation is merely used as an excuse for various actions against economically allied countries.

With inputs from ANI