Russian delegation chief: The land where Russian soldiers set foot is our land
Following the tripartite talks in Abu Dhabi on November 11, Vladimir Medinsky, head of the Russian delegation, articulated Moscow’s uncompromising position on territorial issues, effectively ruling out any possibility of territorial exchanges.
In an interview with the Russian media outlet Vesti, Medinsky stated that discussions regarding the transfer or exchange of buffer zone territories lacked viability: “The issue of territorial swaps is periodically raised by various parties… I see no possibility of such exchanges taking place.”
He grounded his position in historical precedent and statements attributed to President Putin: “As our leader has clearly stated, the land upon which Russian soldiers have set foot is our land.” He concluded by reaffirming Russia’s negotiating stance: “Where the Russian flag is raised, it will not be lowered.”
At a press briefing following the talks, Medinsky also confirmed that Russia’s objectives concerning regions it deems its own would remain unchanged: “On the matter of territory, every inch of land that belongs to us must return to Russia, regardless of circumstances.”
Original: toutiao.com/article/1881629687559235/
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