President Vladimir Putin said Thursday he hoped Ukraine's parliamentary election on Oct. 26 would help bring stability to the country, saying this was also in Russia's interests.
The government in Kiev has accused Moscow of meddling in its affairs by directly supporting pro-Russian separatists fighting government troops in eastern Ukraine, accusations which Russia denies.
"Ukraine's exit from political and economic crisis is in Russia's national interests," Putin told the VTB Capital Russia Calling investment forum in Moscow, referring to Ukraine as Russia's "most brotherly" nation.
"We are interested in having a reliable and predictable partner and neighbor," he said.
Putin said the election would foster stability in Ukraine if Kiev guaranteed the full rights of all Ukrainian citizens — a clear reference to the country's Russian speakers. The rebel-controlled regions of Luhansk and Donetsk say they do not intend to take part in the election on Oct. 26.
"I hope Ukraine's parliamentary elections will be worthy and there will finally be long-awaited political stability," the president said.
A Message from The Moscow Times:
Dear readers,
We are facing unprecedented challenges. Russia's Prosecutor General's Office has designated The Moscow Times as an "undesirable" organization, criminalizing our work and putting our staff at risk of prosecution. This follows our earlier unjust labeling as a "foreign agent."
These actions are direct attempts to silence independent journalism in Russia. The authorities claim our work "discredits the decisions of the Russian leadership." We see things differently: we strive to provide accurate, unbiased reporting on Russia.
We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. But to continue our work, we need your help.
Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just $2. It's quick to set up, and every contribution makes a significant impact.
By supporting The Moscow Times, you're defending open, independent journalism in the face of repression. Thank you for standing with us.
Remind me later.
