Putin: Possible to run for president in 2030, but too early to say

Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed a range of international issues, including his potential participation in the 2030 presidential election, the conflict in Ukraine, and relations with Iran.

Responding to a question about his intentions to remain in power until 2036, Putin stated, "Only God knows that." He acknowledged that the constitution permits him to run in 2030 but emphasized it is "too early to say" and that he is not currently contemplating it. His focus, he asserted, is on addressing Russia's urgent and significant challenges.

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Only God knows that.

Regarding the war in Ukraine, Putin suggested that Russia does not need to halt its military operations to begin negotiations. He indicated that any peace talks should be based on the "Anchorage agreements," a purported U.S.-Russia proposal involving a ceasefire along existing front lines and a halt to further offensives, potentially involving Ukraine ceding territory in the Donbas region.

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The constitution allows for running in 2030, but it is too early to say. Frankly, it is really too early. I am not even thinking about it now.

Putin also dismissed assertions that Russia might attack NATO as "utter nonsense" and a "provocation" aimed at justifying defense spending. He expressed a belief that the European Union could contribute to resolving the Ukraine conflict, provided it aligns with the framework discussed in the "Anchorage agreements."

Furthermore, Putin questioned the legitimacy of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, noting that Zelenskyy's presidential term, according to Ukraine's constitution, has already ended two years prior. He stated that signing historical agreements requires dealing with a "legitimate party," not a matter of Russian preference.

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There is no need for the Russian military to stop its offensive operations to start negotiations. Our troops are advancing every day.

On the topic of Iran's nuclear program, Putin mentioned that Russia possesses the capability to play a role in de-escalating tensions, referencing a past instance where Russia facilitated the transfer of uranium out of Iran. He added that if such a mechanism were activated, final control over nuclear material would transfer to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

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What needs to stop is not individual battles, but the war itself. This must be based on the compromises discussed in Anchorage.