Energy crisis acknowledged by Putin: 'Russia must be strong to exist'

Russian President Vladimir Putin has acknowledged, for the first time, that Russia is experiencing disruptions to its energy supplies. Speaking at a United Russia party congress, Putin emphasized the nation's need for strength and independence, describing the current period as a critical turning point. He stated that Russia must be strong and independent to survive, warning that otherwise, it cannot exist. Putin framed the ongoing challenges as a severe pressure from Western elites. He also revealed that Ukraine had proposed halting long-range strikes and limiting combat to four occupied regions, but Russia rejected these offers. Meanwhile, Ukraine reported drone attacks on oil facilities in Russia's Krasnodar and Yaroslavl regions, contributing to widening energy shortages across Russia. These shortages have led to restrictions on fuel purchases at gas stations. Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak indicated that Russia is reviewing its energy export contracts to prioritize domestic demand.

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Russia must be strong and independent to exist, and otherwise, it cannot exist.