Russian President Vladimir Putin acknowledged that trusting Washington and its allies during his initial presidential terms was “naive.”
Reflecting on his past, he emphasized the importance of placing trust in the Russian people rather than being excessively gullible with Western partners.
Putin expressed confidence in the belief in the great Russian people as crucial for the success of Russia’s renewal and development.
Despite his earlier efforts to maintain good relations with the West, he highlighted instances such as the US withdrawal from the Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty, which Moscow perceived as a significant threat to global security.
Putin, over the years, has consistently voiced concerns about NATO’s eastward expansion and the breach of promises made regarding not expanding the alliance further east.
His 2007 Munich Speech marked a pivotal moment, condemning the unipolar world and cautioning against the neglect of international law by the US and its allies.