🎙 Comment by Presidential Aide Yury Ushakov following 🇷🇺🇨🇳 a telephone conversation with President of China Xi Jinping (June 19 2025)
💬 President Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with President of the People’s Republic of China Xi Jinping. The phone call took place in keeping with the mutual agreement of the two Sides. This was a friendly and constructive conversation with a primary focus on the escalation in the Middle East.
The two Sides share identical approaches and firmly condemn Israel’s actions in violation of the UN Charter and other international norms.
Moscow and Beijing have adopted a position of principle in their belief that the current situation and matters relating to the Iranian nuclear programme cannot be resolved by force, while a solution can only be achieved by political and diplomatic means.
The President of Russia informed his colleague about his latest international contacts with a focus on his telephone conversations with the key actors in the context of the confrontation between Israel and Iran.
The Russian leader reaffirmed Russia’s readiness to offer its good offices, if necessary. <...>
In view of this increasingly challenging environment, the two Leaders agreed to instruct their respective teams in the relevant agencies and services of the two countries to work closely together in the coming days by sharing insights and perspectives. <...>
The conversation organically shifted to the bilateral agenda, with both Leaders stressing that the Chinese President’s May visit to Moscow helped set new important goals and benchmarks for the governments and relevant agencies in their ongoing efforts to reinforce the Russia-China comprehensive strategic partnership.
It was emphasised that the Chinese President’s participation as the main guest in the celebrations of the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War held special significance and served as a compelling testament to our shared steadfast positions in upholding historical truth and preserving the memory of the heroic feats of our forefathers. <...>
It has been agreed that the next time the Leaders will see each other will be on Chinese soil during the SCO Summit in Tianjin on August 31 – September 1. They will take part in the festivities marking the 80th anniversary of victory over militarist Japan and the end of World War II in Beijing on September 3. Full-scale bilateral talks will be held on September 2.
📈 Despite a number of adverse external factors, it was noted that trade and economic cooperation continues to gain momentum. Last year, mutual trade broke another record at almost $245 billion. <...>
The Leaders of Russia and China emphasised their mutual interest in strengthening cooperation on pressing international issues and coordinating their efforts within #BRICS, the #SCO, the #UN, and other international platforms. <...>
It was noted that it would be beneficial, in the spirit of the comprehensive strategic partnership between our countries, to coordinate mutual approaches so that the #CentralAsia region becomes a model of genuine stability, economic prosperity, and constructive cooperation.
☝️ The information we received from the President of China was highly significant and useful to us, particularly in light of our own preparations for the second high-level meeting in the Russia–Central Asia format, which is scheduled for October 10 in Dushanbe.
The Heads of State once again expressed their satisfaction with the unprecedented level of Russian-Chinese relations, and both our President and the President of China remarked at the conclusion that they were very pleased with the exchange of views. The exchange was indeed highly productive, as it addressed the most pressing issues currently on the agenda, both internationally and in terms of developing our bilateral relations and contacts.
The conversation lasted approximately an hour, and the Leaders bid each other farewell in a very warm and friendly manner.
#RussiaChina
💬 President Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with President of the People’s Republic of China Xi Jinping. The phone call took place in keeping with the mutual agreement of the two Sides. This was a friendly and constructive conversation with a primary focus on the escalation in the Middle East.
The two Sides share identical approaches and firmly condemn Israel’s actions in violation of the UN Charter and other international norms.
Moscow and Beijing have adopted a position of principle in their belief that the current situation and matters relating to the Iranian nuclear programme cannot be resolved by force, while a solution can only be achieved by political and diplomatic means.
The President of Russia informed his colleague about his latest international contacts with a focus on his telephone conversations with the key actors in the context of the confrontation between Israel and Iran.
The Russian leader reaffirmed Russia’s readiness to offer its good offices, if necessary. <...>
In view of this increasingly challenging environment, the two Leaders agreed to instruct their respective teams in the relevant agencies and services of the two countries to work closely together in the coming days by sharing insights and perspectives. <...>
The conversation organically shifted to the bilateral agenda, with both Leaders stressing that the Chinese President’s May visit to Moscow helped set new important goals and benchmarks for the governments and relevant agencies in their ongoing efforts to reinforce the Russia-China comprehensive strategic partnership.
It was emphasised that the Chinese President’s participation as the main guest in the celebrations of the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War held special significance and served as a compelling testament to our shared steadfast positions in upholding historical truth and preserving the memory of the heroic feats of our forefathers. <...>
It has been agreed that the next time the Leaders will see each other will be on Chinese soil during the SCO Summit in Tianjin on August 31 – September 1. They will take part in the festivities marking the 80th anniversary of victory over militarist Japan and the end of World War II in Beijing on September 3. Full-scale bilateral talks will be held on September 2.
📈 Despite a number of adverse external factors, it was noted that trade and economic cooperation continues to gain momentum. Last year, mutual trade broke another record at almost $245 billion. <...>
The Leaders of Russia and China emphasised their mutual interest in strengthening cooperation on pressing international issues and coordinating their efforts within #BRICS, the #SCO, the #UN, and other international platforms. <...>
It was noted that it would be beneficial, in the spirit of the comprehensive strategic partnership between our countries, to coordinate mutual approaches so that the #CentralAsia region becomes a model of genuine stability, economic prosperity, and constructive cooperation.
☝️ The information we received from the President of China was highly significant and useful to us, particularly in light of our own preparations for the second high-level meeting in the Russia–Central Asia format, which is scheduled for October 10 in Dushanbe.
The Heads of State once again expressed their satisfaction with the unprecedented level of Russian-Chinese relations, and both our President and the President of China remarked at the conclusion that they were very pleased with the exchange of views. The exchange was indeed highly productive, as it addressed the most pressing issues currently on the agenda, both internationally and in terms of developing our bilateral relations and contacts.
The conversation lasted approximately an hour, and the Leaders bid each other farewell in a very warm and friendly manner.
#RussiaChina
#SPIEF2025 📊 📊 📊 📊
🎙 Russia's President Vladimir Putin took part in the plenary session of the 28th St Petersburg International Economic Forum.
President of the Republic of Indonesia Prabowo Subianto, National Security Advisor, Commander of the Royal Guard of the Kingdom of Bahrain Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Vice Premier of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China Ding Xuexiang, and Deputy President of the Republic of South Africa Paul Mashatile also attended the session.
Key statements:
💬 Despite a challenging international landscape, Russia’s GDP has been demonstrating an annual growth rate of over four percent over the past two years, which is above the global average.
• Commodities no longer play a defining role in Russia’s economic growth patterns. In 2023, Russia’s non-oil-and-gas GDP increased by 7.2 percent, followed by an additional 4.9 percent in 2024. These are solid figures exceeding the overall GDP growth rates.
• Our strategic vector is precisely to actively and consistently transform the structure of the national economy, step by step. We have achieved a great deal in this area, but it is clear that moving forward is critically important, especially in light of the dramatic changes taking place in the world.
• Annual inflation has already dropped to single-digit levels below ten percent. As of June 16, it stood at 9.6 percent. Of course, that is still high, but inflation targeting continues.
• Over the past four years, employment in Russia has grown by 2.4 million people. Since October last year, the national unemployment rate has stabilised at around 2.3 percent, reaching a historic low.
• In terms of youth unemployment, Russia ranks among the best globally, with a rate of approximately seven and a half percent.
For comparison, youth unemployment stands at around 16 percent in France and 11 percent in the United Kingdom.
• Russia’s economy must become more technologically advanced. We must fully unleash a new phase of the country’s technological development. The key instrument in this regard should be the national projects aimed at securing technological leadership.
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🎙 Russia's President Vladimir Putin took part in the plenary session of the 28th St Petersburg International Economic Forum.
President of the Republic of Indonesia Prabowo Subianto, National Security Advisor, Commander of the Royal Guard of the Kingdom of Bahrain Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Vice Premier of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China Ding Xuexiang, and Deputy President of the Republic of South Africa Paul Mashatile also attended the session.
Key statements:
💬 Despite a challenging international landscape, Russia’s GDP has been demonstrating an annual growth rate of over four percent over the past two years, which is above the global average.
• Commodities no longer play a defining role in Russia’s economic growth patterns. In 2023, Russia’s non-oil-and-gas GDP increased by 7.2 percent, followed by an additional 4.9 percent in 2024. These are solid figures exceeding the overall GDP growth rates.
• Our strategic vector is precisely to actively and consistently transform the structure of the national economy, step by step. We have achieved a great deal in this area, but it is clear that moving forward is critically important, especially in light of the dramatic changes taking place in the world.
• Annual inflation has already dropped to single-digit levels below ten percent. As of June 16, it stood at 9.6 percent. Of course, that is still high, but inflation targeting continues.
• Over the past four years, employment in Russia has grown by 2.4 million people. Since October last year, the national unemployment rate has stabilised at around 2.3 percent, reaching a historic low.
• In terms of youth unemployment, Russia ranks among the best globally, with a rate of approximately seven and a half percent.
For comparison, youth unemployment stands at around 16 percent in France and 11 percent in the United Kingdom.
• Russia’s economy must become more technologically advanced. We must fully unleash a new phase of the country’s technological development. The key instrument in this regard should be the national projects aimed at securing technological leadership.
Read in full
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🇷🇺🇮🇩 On the sidelines of the 28th St Petersburg International Economic Forum, President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin held a meeting with President of the Republic of Indonesia Prabowo Subianto, who is in Russia on an official visit (June 19, 2025)
💬 Vladimir Putin: Mr President, friends. I am happy to welcome you to St Petersburg.
We previously met in Moscow before your inauguration, and now, during your official visit, we have the opportunity to discuss our bilateral relations in greater detail.
Tomorrow, we will participate in the plenary session of the St Petersburg International Economic Forum, where you will be our guest of honour. This forum has long served as a valuable platform, bringing together a wide range of entrepreneurs and political leaders from around the world.
🤝 Our relations with Indonesia are steadily advancing, with trade turnover on the rise and strong prospects across several key and promising areas of cooperation. These include agriculture, space exploration, energy, and military-technical cooperation. The scope of our partnership is substantial and continues to expand.
Indonesia is now a full-fledged member of #BRICS, and we very much hope — in fact, I am sure of it — that Indonesia will contribute significantly to the development and work of this organisation, which is becoming more and more influential in international affairs.
We are very pleased to see you, Mr President. Welcome.
#RussiaIndonesia
💬 Vladimir Putin: Mr President, friends. I am happy to welcome you to St Petersburg.
We previously met in Moscow before your inauguration, and now, during your official visit, we have the opportunity to discuss our bilateral relations in greater detail.
Tomorrow, we will participate in the plenary session of the St Petersburg International Economic Forum, where you will be our guest of honour. This forum has long served as a valuable platform, bringing together a wide range of entrepreneurs and political leaders from around the world.
🤝 Our relations with Indonesia are steadily advancing, with trade turnover on the rise and strong prospects across several key and promising areas of cooperation. These include agriculture, space exploration, energy, and military-technical cooperation. The scope of our partnership is substantial and continues to expand.
Indonesia is now a full-fledged member of #BRICS, and we very much hope — in fact, I am sure of it — that Indonesia will contribute significantly to the development and work of this organisation, which is becoming more and more influential in international affairs.
We are very pleased to see you, Mr President. Welcome.
#RussiaIndonesia
⚡️ Russian Foreign Ministry statement in connection with the US strikes on Iran (June 22, 2025)
❗️ Russia resolutely condemns the United States’ strikes on several nuclear facilities in the Islamic Republic of Iran, carried out in the early hours of June 22, following recent attacks by Israel.
This reckless decision to launch missile and aerial strikes on the territory of a sovereign state, regardless of the justifications offered, constitutes a blatant violation of international law, the #UNCharter, and relevant resolutions by the UN Security Council, which has consistently and unequivocally deemed such actions unacceptable. Particularly concerning is the fact that the strikes were executed by a permanent member of the UN Security Council.
☢️ The consequences of this action, including potential radioactive effects, have yet to be determined. However, it is already evident that a dangerous escalation is underway, one that threatens to further destabilise security both in the region and globally. This has drastically increased the likelihood of a larger conflict in the #MiddleEast, a region already plagued by numerous crises.
The attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities have dealt a substantial blow to the global non-proliferation regime built around the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (#NPT), which raises particular concerns. They have significantly undermined both the credibility of the NPT and the integrity of the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) monitoring and verification mechanisms that underpin it.
We expect the IAEA leadership to respond promptly, professionally, and transparently, avoiding vague language or efforts to hide behind political ‘equidistance.’ An unbiased and objective report from the Director General is required, to be submitted for consideration at the Agency’s upcoming special session.
Obviously, the UN Security Council must take a firm stance as well. Confrontational and destabilising actions taken by the United States and Israel must be collectively rejected.
☝️ We call for an immediate end to aggression and for stepping up efforts to bring the situation back onto a peaceful, diplomatic track.
❗️ Russia resolutely condemns the United States’ strikes on several nuclear facilities in the Islamic Republic of Iran, carried out in the early hours of June 22, following recent attacks by Israel.
This reckless decision to launch missile and aerial strikes on the territory of a sovereign state, regardless of the justifications offered, constitutes a blatant violation of international law, the #UNCharter, and relevant resolutions by the UN Security Council, which has consistently and unequivocally deemed such actions unacceptable. Particularly concerning is the fact that the strikes were executed by a permanent member of the UN Security Council.
☢️ The consequences of this action, including potential radioactive effects, have yet to be determined. However, it is already evident that a dangerous escalation is underway, one that threatens to further destabilise security both in the region and globally. This has drastically increased the likelihood of a larger conflict in the #MiddleEast, a region already plagued by numerous crises.
The attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities have dealt a substantial blow to the global non-proliferation regime built around the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (#NPT), which raises particular concerns. They have significantly undermined both the credibility of the NPT and the integrity of the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) monitoring and verification mechanisms that underpin it.
We expect the IAEA leadership to respond promptly, professionally, and transparently, avoiding vague language or efforts to hide behind political ‘equidistance.’ An unbiased and objective report from the Director General is required, to be submitted for consideration at the Agency’s upcoming special session.
Obviously, the UN Security Council must take a firm stance as well. Confrontational and destabilising actions taken by the United States and Israel must be collectively rejected.
☝️ We call for an immediate end to aggression and for stepping up efforts to bring the situation back onto a peaceful, diplomatic track.
On this day in 1941, at 4 a.m., the most devastating, brutal, and bloodiest war ever fought on our planet began — the Great Patriotic War, as Nazi Germany launched its treacherous attack on the Soviet Union.
In an instant, the hopes of millions of families were shattered, and the lives of entire generations were changed forever. The memory of those dark years — and the enduring sorrow — will forever remain in our hearts.
Yet despite all the hardships and suffering endured by our fathers and grandfathers, our mothers and grandmothers, Russia stood firm. The entire nation rose to defend its Homeland. That is why we can also call June 22 a day of pride — pride in those who gave their lives so that the war would end in May 1945. It lasted 1,418 days and nights.
Today, every Russian family pays tribute and expresses gratitude to all those who faced the enemy's first strike, to those who did not live to see the bright day of Victory, but believed in it and fought courageously against fascism.
We will never forget — and we will never allow others to forget.
On this important day in our national history, we invite you to explore the exhibition “Soviet Diplomacy During the Great Patriotic War, 1941–1945.”
22 июня 1941 года, в 4 часа утра началась самая разрушительная, жестокая и кровопролитная из всех войн, когда-либо прошедших на нашей планете - Великая Отечественная война: фашистская Германия напала на Советский Союз.
В одночасье разрушились надежды миллионов семей, были поломаны судьбы целых поколений. Память о тех грозных годах - как и не утихающая скорбь - навсегда останется в наших сердцах.
Но несмотря на все тяготы и невзгоды, выпавшие на долю наших отцов и дедов, наших матерей, Россия устояла. На защиту своей страны поднялся весь народ. И поэтому 22 июня мы можем назвать и днём гордости. За тех, кто отдал свои жизни, чтобы эта война закончилась в мае 1945 - года. Она длилась 1418 дней и ночей.
Сегодня каждая российская семья отдаёт долг памяти и признательности всем, кто принял на себя первый удар врага, кто не дожил до светлого Дня Победы, но верил в него, принимая неравный бой с фашистами.
Мы этого никогда не забудем и не позволим забыть никому!
В этот важный день отечественной истории мы представляем вашему вниманию выставку «Советская дипломатия в годы Великой Отечественной войны 1941-1945 гг.»
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🗓 On June 19, the #EAEU-ASEAN Business Dialogue was held on the sidelines of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (#SPIEF-2025).
🔹️The business dialogue was attended by the Minister for Integration and Macroeconomics of the Eurasian Economic Commission (#EEC) Mr. Eldar Alisherov, ASEAN Deputy Secretary-General Mr. Satvinder Singh, Union Minister of Investment and Foreign Economic Relations of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar Kan Zaw 🇲🇲,
Deputy Prime Minister of the Lao People's Democratic Republic Saleumxay Kommasith 🇱🇦, Managing Director, Adinin Group of Companies; Chair, ASEAN Business Advisory Council of the Brunei Darussalam Musa Adnin 🇧🇳, General Director, Russian Energy Agency (REA) of the Ministry of Energy of Russia Alexey Kulapin 🇷🇺, representatives of business and expert circles from the EAEU and ASEAN Member States.
🔹️The EEC Minister emphasized that it is important for the businesses of the EAEU and ASEAN countries to more actively use the opportunities of digitalization, create data platforms that allow potential partners to find each other, organize business missions, and find new formats for cooperation. Industry dialogue provides good prospects for interaction between the business circles of the EAEU and ASEAN.
“The ASEAN Secretariat and the EEC have already taken practical steps. In 2025, a series of industry seminars was launched in such areas as energy, agriculture, customs regulation, intellectual property, e-commerce, competition policy, and transport,” said Eldar Alisherov.
“In the future, the EAEU and ASEAN could consider establishing an EAEU-ASEAN dialogue mechanism. It could have a clear business component based on the fact that business is the main beneficiary of trade and economic cooperation,” noted Eldar Alisherov.
🔹️The event was co-organized by the Eurasian Economic Commission (#EEC), the Russia-ASEAN Business Council and the Roscongress Foundation.
📌The Memorandum of Understanding between the EEC and ASEAN on Economic Cooperation was signed on November 14, 2018 in Singapore. To implement the Memorandum, a Cooperation Program for 2020–2025 was adopted. It covers such areas as customs legislation and law enforcement practice, trade policy, entrepreneurship, technical and antimonopoly regulation, SPS measures, energy, functioning of domestic markets, and others.
#EEC #EAEU #ASEAN
🔹️The business dialogue was attended by the Minister for Integration and Macroeconomics of the Eurasian Economic Commission (#EEC) Mr. Eldar Alisherov, ASEAN Deputy Secretary-General Mr. Satvinder Singh, Union Minister of Investment and Foreign Economic Relations of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar Kan Zaw 🇲🇲,
Deputy Prime Minister of the Lao People's Democratic Republic Saleumxay Kommasith 🇱🇦, Managing Director, Adinin Group of Companies; Chair, ASEAN Business Advisory Council of the Brunei Darussalam Musa Adnin 🇧🇳, General Director, Russian Energy Agency (REA) of the Ministry of Energy of Russia Alexey Kulapin 🇷🇺, representatives of business and expert circles from the EAEU and ASEAN Member States.
🔹️The EEC Minister emphasized that it is important for the businesses of the EAEU and ASEAN countries to more actively use the opportunities of digitalization, create data platforms that allow potential partners to find each other, organize business missions, and find new formats for cooperation. Industry dialogue provides good prospects for interaction between the business circles of the EAEU and ASEAN.
“The ASEAN Secretariat and the EEC have already taken practical steps. In 2025, a series of industry seminars was launched in such areas as energy, agriculture, customs regulation, intellectual property, e-commerce, competition policy, and transport,” said Eldar Alisherov.
“In the future, the EAEU and ASEAN could consider establishing an EAEU-ASEAN dialogue mechanism. It could have a clear business component based on the fact that business is the main beneficiary of trade and economic cooperation,” noted Eldar Alisherov.
🔹️The event was co-organized by the Eurasian Economic Commission (#EEC), the Russia-ASEAN Business Council and the Roscongress Foundation.
📌The Memorandum of Understanding between the EEC and ASEAN on Economic Cooperation was signed on November 14, 2018 in Singapore. To implement the Memorandum, a Cooperation Program for 2020–2025 was adopted. It covers such areas as customs legislation and law enforcement practice, trade policy, entrepreneurship, technical and antimonopoly regulation, SPS measures, energy, functioning of domestic markets, and others.
#EEC #EAEU #ASEAN
🔥1
⚡️ Russian Foreign Ministry Statement regarding the spiralling escalation in the Middle East and the Persian Gulf
❌ The attacks carried out by the United States and Israel against Iran – as the Russian Side had previously warned – have resulted in a sharp deterioration and radical destabilisation of the situation in the Middle East and the Persian Gulf.
This constitutes an exceptionally dangerous erosion of global and regional security, entailing long-term and profoundly detrimental repercussions, including for trade and economic relations, air and maritime connectivity, and, not least, the non-proliferation regime.
The unprovoked aggression by the United States and Israel against Iran – their brazen attempts to effect regime change, infringe upon the country’s sovereignty, interfere in its internal affairs, and impose a political trajectory upon the Iranian people – represents a flagrant violation of the Charter of the United Nations and the fundamental norms and principles of international law.
❗️ Such an unacceptable course of action must be brought to an immediate end.
Once again, we reiterate our call to halt the escalation of armed confrontation and to refrain from provocative actions and incendiary rhetoric. Now more than ever, it is imperative to return to political and diplomatic avenues and to reaffirm the primacy of international legality.
It is precisely in pursuit of these objectives that Russia will continue to pursue an active policy within the frameworks of the #UN and the #IAEA, as well as through bilateral engagements with a broad range of stakeholders.
❌ The attacks carried out by the United States and Israel against Iran – as the Russian Side had previously warned – have resulted in a sharp deterioration and radical destabilisation of the situation in the Middle East and the Persian Gulf.
This constitutes an exceptionally dangerous erosion of global and regional security, entailing long-term and profoundly detrimental repercussions, including for trade and economic relations, air and maritime connectivity, and, not least, the non-proliferation regime.
The unprovoked aggression by the United States and Israel against Iran – their brazen attempts to effect regime change, infringe upon the country’s sovereignty, interfere in its internal affairs, and impose a political trajectory upon the Iranian people – represents a flagrant violation of the Charter of the United Nations and the fundamental norms and principles of international law.
❗️ Such an unacceptable course of action must be brought to an immediate end.
Once again, we reiterate our call to halt the escalation of armed confrontation and to refrain from provocative actions and incendiary rhetoric. Now more than ever, it is imperative to return to political and diplomatic avenues and to reaffirm the primacy of international legality.
It is precisely in pursuit of these objectives that Russia will continue to pursue an active policy within the frameworks of the #UN and the #IAEA, as well as through bilateral engagements with a broad range of stakeholders.
🗓 Observed on June 26, the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking was established as per UN General Assembly Resolution 42/112 in 1987.
On this day, the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has a tradition of releasing its annual World Drug Report. It has shown that the situation regarding narcotic drugs around the world has been deteriorating.
☝️ Russia views countering the drug threat as one of its priorities in terms of ensuring national security with the corresponding provisions set forth in the State Anti-Narcotics Policy Strategy of the Russian Federation until 2030. In accordance with these provisions, Russia has been consistent in its efforts to promote a comprehensive and balanced approach combining effective law enforcement initiatives with evidence-based drug abuse prevention, treatment and rehabilitation policies for drug users.
Having all states coordinate their efforts is the only possible pathway for overcoming the existing drug-related challenges. Three dedicated UN conventions adopted in 1961, 1971, and 1988 offer a solid foundation for facilitating ties in this domain. These instruments have proven their worth and remain relevant. The Russian Federation insists that revising these fundamental documents would be unacceptable, including in terms of legalising controlled substances.
Russia believes that legislative initiatives in several countries to end bans and enact government regulations with the view to enabling people to use narcotics for non-medical purposes would not only have a negative bearing on the way the public views drug-related risks, but also constitutes a blatant violation of these conventions.
❗️ The Russian Federation insists that it is essential for the international community to promote constructive cooperation that is not guided by a political agenda or vested political interests, including within the relevant platforms. As a responsible member of the UN Commission on Narcotic Drugs, Russia continues to proactively contribute to developing a global drug policy and supports other countries in their commitment to do away with the narcotics issue.
Russia praises its partners within the #CIS, the #SCO, the #CSTO, #ASEAN and #BRICS for their cooperation on the anti-narcotics agenda which consists of ensuring strict compliance with the relevant conventions and resolving the global narcotics issue.
Russia is committed to performing its obligations in good faith, as confirmed by our country’s efforts to work with international organisations on a wide range of projects to this effect. The recent achievements in this sphere include launching a UNODC-sponsored career enhancement course for officers from Egypt’s anti-narcotics administration at the Siberian Institute of Law of the Ministry of the Interior of the Russian Federation in Krasnoyarsk. The Russian Federation will continue to act as a donor in this sector by offering its partners in Central Asia, Iran, Egypt, Pakistan and other regions educational projects on law enforcement matters, as well as working with young people to prevent drug abuse.
Russia attaches special importance and attention to the availability of controlled substances for medical and research purposes, which is especially relevant for developing countries. Our country provides financial support to the International Narcotics Control Board, enabling it to hold regular training sessions on this topic across the world. The latest event of this kind took place in January 2025 and included ten countries in East Africa and the Horn of Africa. It generated a lot of enthusiasm among its participants.
🤝 Russia reaffirms its commitment to expanding its cooperation and promoting constructive dialogue with all the interested parties in order to unite like-minded actors in a consolidated effort to preserve the existing global drug-control framework and build a society free from drug abuse.
On this day, the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has a tradition of releasing its annual World Drug Report. It has shown that the situation regarding narcotic drugs around the world has been deteriorating.
☝️ Russia views countering the drug threat as one of its priorities in terms of ensuring national security with the corresponding provisions set forth in the State Anti-Narcotics Policy Strategy of the Russian Federation until 2030. In accordance with these provisions, Russia has been consistent in its efforts to promote a comprehensive and balanced approach combining effective law enforcement initiatives with evidence-based drug abuse prevention, treatment and rehabilitation policies for drug users.
Having all states coordinate their efforts is the only possible pathway for overcoming the existing drug-related challenges. Three dedicated UN conventions adopted in 1961, 1971, and 1988 offer a solid foundation for facilitating ties in this domain. These instruments have proven their worth and remain relevant. The Russian Federation insists that revising these fundamental documents would be unacceptable, including in terms of legalising controlled substances.
Russia believes that legislative initiatives in several countries to end bans and enact government regulations with the view to enabling people to use narcotics for non-medical purposes would not only have a negative bearing on the way the public views drug-related risks, but also constitutes a blatant violation of these conventions.
❗️ The Russian Federation insists that it is essential for the international community to promote constructive cooperation that is not guided by a political agenda or vested political interests, including within the relevant platforms. As a responsible member of the UN Commission on Narcotic Drugs, Russia continues to proactively contribute to developing a global drug policy and supports other countries in their commitment to do away with the narcotics issue.
Russia praises its partners within the #CIS, the #SCO, the #CSTO, #ASEAN and #BRICS for their cooperation on the anti-narcotics agenda which consists of ensuring strict compliance with the relevant conventions and resolving the global narcotics issue.
Russia is committed to performing its obligations in good faith, as confirmed by our country’s efforts to work with international organisations on a wide range of projects to this effect. The recent achievements in this sphere include launching a UNODC-sponsored career enhancement course for officers from Egypt’s anti-narcotics administration at the Siberian Institute of Law of the Ministry of the Interior of the Russian Federation in Krasnoyarsk. The Russian Federation will continue to act as a donor in this sector by offering its partners in Central Asia, Iran, Egypt, Pakistan and other regions educational projects on law enforcement matters, as well as working with young people to prevent drug abuse.
Russia attaches special importance and attention to the availability of controlled substances for medical and research purposes, which is especially relevant for developing countries. Our country provides financial support to the International Narcotics Control Board, enabling it to hold regular training sessions on this topic across the world. The latest event of this kind took place in January 2025 and included ten countries in East Africa and the Horn of Africa. It generated a lot of enthusiasm among its participants.
🤝 Russia reaffirms its commitment to expanding its cooperation and promoting constructive dialogue with all the interested parties in order to unite like-minded actors in a consolidated effort to preserve the existing global drug-control framework and build a society free from drug abuse.
🎙 Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s opening remarks during talks with Thongsavanh Phomvihane, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Moscow, June 26, 2025)
💬 Dear Mr Minister,
I am delighted to welcome you in Moscow. This is your first visit to our capital as the Foreign Minister of the Lao PDR, but you are no stranger here.
You are a frequent visitor to our country: last May, you attended the festivities marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory as a special representative of the President of the Lao PDR, and in 2024, you participated in the inaugural forum of the international socio-political movement For the Freedom of Nations in Vladivostok. We greatly appreciate this and trust that your extensive and distinguished experience in fostering relations with Russia will serve you well in your new role as head of the Lao Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
As a fellow alumnus of our university, you are deeply familiar with our country’s history, language, and culture. I have no doubt that you will uphold continuity and advance progress in our bilateral strategic partnership.
October 7, 2025, marks 65 years of diplomatic relations between Russia and the Lao People’s Democratic Republic. In March, the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party celebrated its 70th anniversary, and in December, we will commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Lao PDR’s proclamation. This year is rich in significant occasions, and I am confident that our concrete actions will further strengthen cooperation across all areas for outstanding performance results.
I expect that today, our discussion will span all aspects of bilateral relations, the situation in the region, international political issues addressed by the #UN, cooperation mechanisms in Eurasia – including our good and close relations with #ASEAN – and other relevant topics.
🇷🇺🇱🇦 #RussiaLaos
💬 Dear Mr Minister,
I am delighted to welcome you in Moscow. This is your first visit to our capital as the Foreign Minister of the Lao PDR, but you are no stranger here.
You are a frequent visitor to our country: last May, you attended the festivities marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory as a special representative of the President of the Lao PDR, and in 2024, you participated in the inaugural forum of the international socio-political movement For the Freedom of Nations in Vladivostok. We greatly appreciate this and trust that your extensive and distinguished experience in fostering relations with Russia will serve you well in your new role as head of the Lao Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
As a fellow alumnus of our university, you are deeply familiar with our country’s history, language, and culture. I have no doubt that you will uphold continuity and advance progress in our bilateral strategic partnership.
October 7, 2025, marks 65 years of diplomatic relations between Russia and the Lao People’s Democratic Republic. In March, the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party celebrated its 70th anniversary, and in December, we will commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Lao PDR’s proclamation. This year is rich in significant occasions, and I am confident that our concrete actions will further strengthen cooperation across all areas for outstanding performance results.
I expect that today, our discussion will span all aspects of bilateral relations, the situation in the region, international political issues addressed by the #UN, cooperation mechanisms in Eurasia – including our good and close relations with #ASEAN – and other relevant topics.
🇷🇺🇱🇦 #RussiaLaos
🎙 Following the EAEU summit, President of Russia Vladimir Putin answered questions from Russian journalists
📍 Minsk, June 27, 2025
#EAEU
As for the outcomes of today’s EAEU summit, we are satisfied with the results and have drawn certain conclusions.
The President of Belarus has already noted that our development strategy, which was designed to run until this year, is nearing completion. We are considering how to structure our joint efforts moving forward. However, overall, the results of our work cannot but satisfy us. They satisfy all of us. Why? Because the key aggregate indicator of economic performance is the growth rate.
In the EAEU, it exceeds the global average. As is known, global growth stands at 3.3 percent. The EAEU’s growth is over 4 percent – significantly higher. In some countries, it is substantially greater, reaching 5 percent or even approaching 6 percent, in my view. This is, among other things, a direct result of our joint efforts, as the very purpose of our work is to eliminate trade and other economic barriers to cooperation. Without exaggeration, this multiplies the potential for economic growth.
#Ukraine
Regarding the memorandums [Russian and Ukrainian], as expected, there were no surprises. I will not tell you anything surprising, either. These are two absolutely opposing memorandums, but that is precisely why talks are set up and held – to find ways to bring positions closer. The fact that they were diametrically opposed does not seem surprising to me, either. I would not like to go into details, as I believe it would be counterproductive – even harmful – to get ahead of the talks.
With regard to what has been achieved so far following the talks, I think you can see it for yourself. Today, if I am not mistaken, another exchange took place… or was it yesterday? Today, right? And this is important. The humanitarian aspect matters because, as diplomats say, it creates conditions for substantive discussions on core issues. We agreed that after completing these exchanges and the humanitarian operation which we proposed – specifically, the transfer of the servicemen’s bodies – we would press ahead with more contacts.
We have already handed over more than 6,000 bodies and are ready to transfer nearly 3,000 more, but it is now up to the Ukrainian side to agree to accept the remains of their fallen soldiers.
We agreed that after this phase is completed, we would hold the third round of talks. We are ready for it overall. The venue and the time need to be agreed upon. I expect President Erdogan to keep unchanged his supportive stance with regard to this process. We are very grateful to him for that. We stand ready to hold this meeting in Istanbul. As for the exact timeframe, the heads of the negotiating teams from both sides – who remain in constant, direct contact and regularly get on the phone with each other (which, I believe, is a good sign) – are discussing the date for the next meeting.
The agenda? In my opinion, the discussion should focus on the memoranda from both sides.
#EU #NATO
We are planning to cut the defence expenses next year and the year after, as well during the next three years. The Defence Ministry, the Finance Ministry and the Ministry of Economic Development have yet to reach the final agreement, still, in general, everybody is thinking along these lines. And Europe is thinking about raising its defence expenses.
So, who is getting ready for any aggressive actions, us or them?
Yes, we do want to complete the special military operation with the result we need. Certainly. This is what we take into account when planning our defence expenses, not aggressive aspirations against Europe and NATO countries. And we want to decrease the expenses, while they want to increase them.
📄 Read in full
📍 Minsk, June 27, 2025
#EAEU
As for the outcomes of today’s EAEU summit, we are satisfied with the results and have drawn certain conclusions.
The President of Belarus has already noted that our development strategy, which was designed to run until this year, is nearing completion. We are considering how to structure our joint efforts moving forward. However, overall, the results of our work cannot but satisfy us. They satisfy all of us. Why? Because the key aggregate indicator of economic performance is the growth rate.
In the EAEU, it exceeds the global average. As is known, global growth stands at 3.3 percent. The EAEU’s growth is over 4 percent – significantly higher. In some countries, it is substantially greater, reaching 5 percent or even approaching 6 percent, in my view. This is, among other things, a direct result of our joint efforts, as the very purpose of our work is to eliminate trade and other economic barriers to cooperation. Without exaggeration, this multiplies the potential for economic growth.
#Ukraine
Regarding the memorandums [Russian and Ukrainian], as expected, there were no surprises. I will not tell you anything surprising, either. These are two absolutely opposing memorandums, but that is precisely why talks are set up and held – to find ways to bring positions closer. The fact that they were diametrically opposed does not seem surprising to me, either. I would not like to go into details, as I believe it would be counterproductive – even harmful – to get ahead of the talks.
With regard to what has been achieved so far following the talks, I think you can see it for yourself. Today, if I am not mistaken, another exchange took place… or was it yesterday? Today, right? And this is important. The humanitarian aspect matters because, as diplomats say, it creates conditions for substantive discussions on core issues. We agreed that after completing these exchanges and the humanitarian operation which we proposed – specifically, the transfer of the servicemen’s bodies – we would press ahead with more contacts.
We have already handed over more than 6,000 bodies and are ready to transfer nearly 3,000 more, but it is now up to the Ukrainian side to agree to accept the remains of their fallen soldiers.
We agreed that after this phase is completed, we would hold the third round of talks. We are ready for it overall. The venue and the time need to be agreed upon. I expect President Erdogan to keep unchanged his supportive stance with regard to this process. We are very grateful to him for that. We stand ready to hold this meeting in Istanbul. As for the exact timeframe, the heads of the negotiating teams from both sides – who remain in constant, direct contact and regularly get on the phone with each other (which, I believe, is a good sign) – are discussing the date for the next meeting.
The agenda? In my opinion, the discussion should focus on the memoranda from both sides.
#EU #NATO
We are planning to cut the defence expenses next year and the year after, as well during the next three years. The Defence Ministry, the Finance Ministry and the Ministry of Economic Development have yet to reach the final agreement, still, in general, everybody is thinking along these lines. And Europe is thinking about raising its defence expenses.
So, who is getting ready for any aggressive actions, us or them?
Yes, we do want to complete the special military operation with the result we need. Certainly. This is what we take into account when planning our defence expenses, not aggressive aspirations against Europe and NATO countries. And we want to decrease the expenses, while they want to increase them.
📄 Read in full
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🎙 President of Russia Vladimir Putin’s answer to a question by Kommersant newspaper following the EAEU summit (Minsk, June 27, 2025)
❓Question: Do you not consider it timely to arrange a personal meeting with Donald Trump? From an external perspective, one might observe a degree of mutual distancing, so to speak. While telephone communication serves its purpose, face-to-face engagement, as the saying goes, carries distinct significance. What are your thoughts?
💬 Vladimir Putin: I hold the incumbent President of the United States in the highest regard. His path to returning to power and to the White House has been exceptionally arduous, complex, and hazardous – a fact of which we are all cognisant, particularly given the assassination attempts he has survived, indeed multiple attempts on his life. He is a courageous man, that much is evident.
Naturally, we highly value both his domestic policies and his endeavours regarding the Middle East situation, as well as his efforts toward resolving the Ukrainian crisis. I have previously articulated this position and wish to reaffirm it publicly: I am convinced that President Trump is genuinely committed to resolving the issue on the Ukrainian track.
Recently, I believe he observed that the matter has proven more intricate than external appearances suggested. That is indeed the case. Such complexity is unsurprising – there exists a substantial difference between distant observation and direct engagement with the issue. The same is true of the Middle East crisis. Although he may have greater experience there, having been more deeply involved in Middle Eastern affairs, complexities persist there as well. Real life is always more complex than any notion of it.
I have consistently maintained openness to dialogue and meetings. I am aware President Trump has similarly referenced potential discussions. Like him, I contend such encounters require meticulous preparation and must yield tangible new milestones in cooperation. Overall, thanks to President Trump, Russian-American relations are demonstrating initial stabilisation, at least to some extent. Not all issues in diplomatic relations have been resolved, but the first steps have been taken, and we are moving forward.
We have established operational contacts between respective agencies – notably between the Department of State and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, alongside coordination between our security services, which is also very important. For example, counterterrorism remains a priority for us in any circumstances, as do interactions along certain other operational collaborations.
We have good prospects for economic cooperation. We are aware that American businesses are demonstrating interest, showing intent, and sending signals about their desire to return to our market. We can only welcome this. However, all such developments require consistent preparation.
That said, overall, such a meeting remains entirely possible, and we would be pleased to arrange it.
❓Question: Do you not consider it timely to arrange a personal meeting with Donald Trump? From an external perspective, one might observe a degree of mutual distancing, so to speak. While telephone communication serves its purpose, face-to-face engagement, as the saying goes, carries distinct significance. What are your thoughts?
💬 Vladimir Putin: I hold the incumbent President of the United States in the highest regard. His path to returning to power and to the White House has been exceptionally arduous, complex, and hazardous – a fact of which we are all cognisant, particularly given the assassination attempts he has survived, indeed multiple attempts on his life. He is a courageous man, that much is evident.
Naturally, we highly value both his domestic policies and his endeavours regarding the Middle East situation, as well as his efforts toward resolving the Ukrainian crisis. I have previously articulated this position and wish to reaffirm it publicly: I am convinced that President Trump is genuinely committed to resolving the issue on the Ukrainian track.
Recently, I believe he observed that the matter has proven more intricate than external appearances suggested. That is indeed the case. Such complexity is unsurprising – there exists a substantial difference between distant observation and direct engagement with the issue. The same is true of the Middle East crisis. Although he may have greater experience there, having been more deeply involved in Middle Eastern affairs, complexities persist there as well. Real life is always more complex than any notion of it.
I have consistently maintained openness to dialogue and meetings. I am aware President Trump has similarly referenced potential discussions. Like him, I contend such encounters require meticulous preparation and must yield tangible new milestones in cooperation. Overall, thanks to President Trump, Russian-American relations are demonstrating initial stabilisation, at least to some extent. Not all issues in diplomatic relations have been resolved, but the first steps have been taken, and we are moving forward.
We have established operational contacts between respective agencies – notably between the Department of State and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, alongside coordination between our security services, which is also very important. For example, counterterrorism remains a priority for us in any circumstances, as do interactions along certain other operational collaborations.
We have good prospects for economic cooperation. We are aware that American businesses are demonstrating interest, showing intent, and sending signals about their desire to return to our market. We can only welcome this. However, all such developments require consistent preparation.
That said, overall, such a meeting remains entirely possible, and we would be pleased to arrange it.