Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke about relations with Azerbaijan at a press conference following his visit to China.
The editorial office reports that Putin stated he greeted Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and his wife in China and had a brief conversation. Although he admitted that certain issues exist in relations between Russia and Azerbaijan, he expressed confidence that fundamental ties and mutual interest would overcome these problems.
Putin also emphasized that Moscow has always opposed Ukraine's NATO membership but has never questioned its European Union membership. He invited Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, noting that he could come to Moscow if he is ready.
During his speech at the press conference, Putin accused the West of ignoring Russia's security concerns, thereby causing a tragedy in Ukraine. Answering a question about US President Donald Trump's statements, the Russian leader said, “everyone knows well that Trump is not devoid of a sense of humor.”