Key statements by Putin in meeting with Slovak Prime Minister Fico

On September 2, the President of Russia, Vladimir Putin, met with the Prime Minister of Slovakia, Robert Fico, in Beijing. The leaders were expected to meet on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit, which concluded on September 1. In the talks in the Chinese capital, Putin made several key statements regarding Russia’s relations with Ukraine and the NATO alliance. Putin emphasized his concerns about the impact of attacks on the ‘Friendship’ gas pipeline, highlighting the need for stability in energy supplies. He underlined Russia’s commitments to Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, pointing out the importance of respecting international law.