New Delhi, India – Russian President Vladimir Putin accused Western countries of seeking to regain what he called their lost leadership on the international stage. He explained that they are using direct and aggressive means to influence logistics, infrastructure, and international trade routes.
Speaking at the BRICS business forum in India, Putin said the West is trying by all means to maintain its leading position. He added that it is resorting to what he called “shameful methods.”
Targeting infrastructure and transportation
The Russian president explained that these methods include the use of tools for direct physical impact. He also mentioned the destruction of industrial and logistical facilities, pipelines, and other infrastructure.
He added that Western countries are also seeking to disrupt international shipping lanes. He also pointed to attempts to seize maritime vessels and impose restrictions he described as illegal.
Putin said these measures are part of an effort to influence countries that refuse to act in the interests of others. He explained that these countries are committed to defending their national interests.
Criticism of Western sanctions
Putin’s remarks come at a time when Russia is facing thousands of Western sanctions. Moscow, for its part, maintains that these measures have failed to achieve their stated objectives and have had economic repercussions for the countries that imposed them.
In other remarks at the forum, Putin stated that the number of sanctions imposed on Russia had reached approximately 30,000. He argued that the countries imposing these sanctions were facing economic decline and were incapable of pursuing innovative policies similar to those adopted by Russia.
He also noted an 8% decline in industrial production in the major economies of the Eurozone.
BRICS and the changing balance of the economy
The Russian president linked these developments to the rise of the BRICS group and its growing role in the global economy. He also emphasized that the group does not seek isolation but is ready to cooperate with various countries around the world.
Putin stated that the BRICS countries produce more than 40% of global GDP, compared to approximately 29% for the G7. He also added that half of global economic growth originates from these countries.
He stressed that the established economic partnership between the BRICS countries constitutes one of the foundations of the new international relations.
