Putin Blames West for Ukraine Conflict During China Summit

Russian President Vladimir Putin delivered a contentious speech during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, where he placed blame for the ongoing conflict in Ukraine squarely on Western nations. Speaking to leaders from various countries, Putin asserted that the 2014 coup in Ukraine, which resulted in the ousting of the pro-Russian government, was orchestrated by Western powers and ignited the current conflict.

Putin argued that the military actions taken by Russia were not the cause of the war but rather a response to the destabilization created by the West’s interference. He stated, “The West stirred the pot, overthrew the government, and pushed Ukraine toward NATO – and now they want to blame us.” This assertion reflects long-standing claims by the Kremlin that Western influence has exacerbated tensions in the region.

In his remarks, Putin emphasized that the push for NATO membership by Ukraine was a significant factor in the escalation of hostilities. He claimed that the removal of the previous leadership, which had rejected NATO membership, was a deliberate move to align Ukraine with Western interests. “The people who didn’t want NATO were kicked out,” he said, asserting that addressing these “root causes” is essential for achieving lasting peace in Ukraine.

Calls for Peace and New Alliances

During the summit, Putin also referenced his recent discussions with United States President Donald Trump, describing them as an opportunity to pave the way for peace. He acknowledged the diplomatic efforts of China and New Delhi, suggesting that their proposals could aid in resolving the ongoing crisis in Ukraine. This highlights the growing geopolitical dynamics at play, with Russia seeking to strengthen its ties with Eastern allies.

Moreover, Putin advocated for the establishment of a new global order that favors Eastern powers over traditional Western dominance. He characterized the SCO as a formidable alternative to Western-led alliances such as NATO, urging member states to work together in forging a new path forward.

Putin’s statements at the SCO summit come amid intensified scrutiny of Russia’s actions in Ukraine, particularly as the conflict continues to have profound implications for regional stability and international relations. By framing the narrative in this manner, Putin aims to rally support among nations that share a similar view on Western interventionism.

As the summit concluded, the rhetoric from the Russian leader underscores the ongoing tensions between Russia and the West, as well as the complex interplay of alliances shaping the future of global politics. The implications of these developments will likely resonate in international discussions for the foreseeable future.