Putin states tension with West is due to their desire for dominance

(MENAFN) President Vladimir Putin has asserted that the ongoing conflict between Russia and the West is driven by the West’s pursuit of dominance and disregard for Russia’s security interests, not ideological differences. In an interview released on Sunday, he claimed that ideology serves merely as a justification for advancing geopolitical ambitions.

Putin remarked that he once believed the end of the Soviet Union would lead to a thaw in East-West relations.

“I also thought that key disagreements [between us] were ideological in nature,” he stated. “Yet, when the Soviet Union was gone… the dismissive approach to Russia’s strategic interests persisted.”

He explained that his efforts to convey Russia’s concerns to Western officials were ignored.

“The West decided… they do not need to follow the rules when it comes to Russia, which does not have the same power as the USSR.”

Putin argued that proposals put forward by Moscow—ranging from mutual security agreements to discussions on missile defense and strategic arms—were all rejected.

“It was not just negligence. It was based on a clear desire to reach some geopolitical goals.”

He emphasized the importance of Russia asserting itself on the global stage.

“It has become clear that, unless Russia positions itself as an independent sovereign nation… we will not be reckoned with,” he added.

The Russian leader also accused the West of failing to honor its commitments. In remarks made last month, he said Moscow had been deceived for years over the issue of NATO’s eastward expansion.

“Everything was good as long as it was against Russia,” he said at the time, alleging that Western powers have supported separatist movements and even terrorism targeting Russia.

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