After Ukrainian strikes, Putin acknowledges infrastructure problems

Russian President Vladimir Putin has acknowledged the impact of Ukrainian attacks on Russia's critical infrastructure, particularly its energy sector. In comments made during an interview, Putin stated that these strikes are indeed causing problems, though he characterized the resulting shortages as not being critical.

“

Regarding strikes on critical infrastructure in general, and especially on energy infrastructure, of course, these attacks on our infrastructure objects create problems, this is obvious.

"Regarding strikes on critical infrastructure in general, and especially on energy infrastructure, of course, these attacks on our infrastructure objects create problems, this is obvious," Putin said. He emphasized that Russia's immediate priorities are to enhance its air defense systems and ensure a stable fuel supply, with a particular focus on Crimea, which Russia annexed in 2014.

“

Currently, we are observing certain shortages, but they are not critical.

Putin also touched upon potential diplomatic avenues, expressing his expectation that a U.S. negotiating team might visit Moscow. This discussion, he suggested, would be contingent on Washington's reduced involvement in the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and its focus on Iran. The Kremlin has previously indicated a willingness to engage in talks, but has also blamed the U.S. and its allies for hindering peace efforts.

“

The main task now, according to him, is to increase Russia's anti-aircraft defense capabilities and ensure fuel supply, especially to Crimea.

The remarks come amid heightened tensions and reciprocal attacks. Ukrainian officials have described the strikes as a just response to Russia's near-daily assaults on Ukrainian civilians and energy infrastructure since the full-scale invasion began in February 2022. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that these operations aim to weaken Russia's ability to wage war, citing specific attacks on oil refineries in the Krasnodar and Yaroslavl regions.

“

We expect that after all events, after the active stage of the Iranian issue passes, those representatives of the US administration will arrive with whom we have already met more than once in Moscow.