In a June 21 meeting in the Kremlin with graduates of higher military schools, Russian President Vladimir Putin restated his June 14 comprehensive proposal for a new Eurasian security architecture, including a negotiated solution to the Ukraine war, and he again emphasized that his proposal is open to Europe and NATO countries, “naturally, when they are ready for it.”
“Russia consistently advocates enhanced stability on the planet and a just and democratic multipolar world order. Recently, at the meeting with Foreign Ministry senior staff, I described our vision on creating equal and indivisible security in Eurasia. We are ready for a broad international discussion of these key, vital issues, with our colleagues in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, the CIS, the EAEU, BRICS, and with other international associations, including European and NATO states. Naturally, when they are ready for it.”
Putin made it clear that Russia would also maintain and strengthen its strategic defense capabilities. “At the same time, considering the difficult international situation and new challenges and risks emerging, we will continue improving the Armed Forces, building our defense policy based on advanced technologies and sciences.… Our plans include further development of the nuclear triad as a guarantee of strategic deterrence and maintaining the balance of power in the world.”
