In a rare and revealing interview, Russian President Vladimir Putin engaged in a candid conversation with journalist Tucker Carlson, founder of the Tucker Carlson Network. The discussion, held at the Kremlin, touched upon a myriad of topics, shedding light on Putin's views on geopolitics and Russia's relationship with the West.
Putin opened up about Russia's post-Soviet expectations of being welcomed into the fold of "civilized nations." He lamented the broken promise of NATO's eastward expansion, despite assurances to the contrary. Recounting the events surrounding Yugoslavia, Putin emphasized Russia's vocal support for the Serbs and criticized the United States' unilateral bombing of Belgrade, which he deemed a violation of international law.
”After 1991, when Russia expected that it would be welcomed into the brotherly family of ”civilized nations,“ nothing like this happened. You tricked us (I don't mean you personally when I say ”you“, of course, I'm talking about the United States), the promise was that NATO would not expand eastward, but it happened five times, there were five waves of expansion,” Putin explained.
Reflecting on his early presidency in 2000, Putin expressed efforts to restore relations with the West. He recounted a pivotal moment during a meeting with then-President Bill Clinton, where he inquired about the possibility of Russia joining NATO. Despite initial indications of interest from Clinton, the idea was ultimately rebuffed, leaving Putin disillusioned about the prospects of rapprochement.
“Bill, do you think if Russia asked to join NATO, do you think it would happen?“ Suddenly he said: ”You know, it's interesting, I think so.“ But in the evening, when we had dinner, he said, ”You know, I've talked to my team, no-no, it's not possible now”” Putin said.
When Carlson probed Putin about his sincerity in seeking NATO membership, Putin reiterated his genuine desire for closer ties with the West. However, he acknowledged the lack of reciprocation and attributed it to factors beyond mere bitterness, pointing to Russia's perceived unwelcome status on the global stage.
Addressing the motives behind Western hostility, Putin suggested that Russia's size and independent stance may have played a role. He cited instances of NATO's unified stance under U.S. pressure, particularly regarding Ukraine, as evidence of Western influence in international affairs.
Putin highlighted Russia's efforts to foster relations with the United States, particularly in the aftermath of events such as the Iraq War. Despite facing setbacks and rebuffs, Putin maintained a pragmatic approach to diplomacy, emphasizing the importance of seeking common ground in international relations.
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