Putin admits economic damage from strikes, promises more strikes on Ukraine
Ukrainian strikes against critical infrastructure across Russia are causing tangible damage to its economy, but Moscow will continue attacking Ukrainian civilian, agricultural, and logistical infrastructure, Russian dictator Vladimir Putin stated in a video interview with state propagandist Pavel Zarubin for the Vesti program, published by the Kremlin on Aug. 23.
In a recent video interview, Russian President Vladimir Putin admitted that Ukrainian strikes targeting critical infrastructure in Russia are inflicting tangible economic damage. Speaking on the eve of Ukraine’s 35th Independence Day, Putin vowed to continue attacking Ukrainian civilian, agricultural, and logistical infrastructure, highlighting the Kremlin's commitment to economic warfare during the milestone celebration.
Facing mounting operational realities, Putin acknowledged the economic losses caused by strikes on rear infrastructure, demonstrating the impact on Russia's fuel and logistics sectors. Despite the economic strain, Putin attempted to justify the domestic fuel crisis and rear disruptions by claiming a 40-day plan of escalation, concocted by Western and Ukrainian forces.
On Aug. 5, this 40-day deadline had passed, according to Putin. While maintaining that the frontline power balances remained unchanged, he admitted to the material economic harm inflicted on Russia, specifically citing fuel supply problems and oil refinery attacks ahead of the State Duma elections. Putin urged private enterprises and regional authorities to independently finance security measures and contribute to air defense operations.
He called for improved coordination between law enforcement and civilian agencies, emphasizing the importance of state enterprises and private business integration into air defense efforts. Putin also focused on agricultural and port infrastructure, expressing intention to systematically strike the most sensitive sectors of Ukraine’s economy, particularly agricultural production that generates vital foreign currency revenues.
However, he inadvertently acknowledged Russia's own domestic bottlenecks in exporting its own commodities. Despite possessing great export potential, Putin stated that Russia faces challenges in exporting its goods, yet assured that these issues would be resolved, ensuring no shortage on the global market.
Written by urgent.news from New Voice of Ukraine's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
