Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday that Russia had not lost anything as a result of its military campaign in Ukraine.
Speaking at an economic forum in the far eastern Russian city of Vladivostok, he said all Russia's actions were designed to strengthen the country's sovereignty and were aimed at "helping people" living in the Donbas region of eastern Ukraine.
"We have not lost anything and will not lose anything," Putin said. "In terms of what we have gained, I can say that the main gain has been the strengthening of our sovereignty."
Putin conceded, however, that Moscow's decision to send troops into Ukraine had created a "certain polarization, both in the world and within the country."
Russia sent tens of thousands of troops into Ukraine on Feb. 24 in what it called a special operation to degrade its southern neighbour's military capabilities and root out people it called dangerous nationalists.
Western countries have dismissed Russia's claims as an attempt to justify a land grab.
Moscow's military intervention prompted a flurry of sanctions from the West, sending prices for food and energy soaring.
"All our actions are aimed at helping the people who live in Donbas," Putin said. "This is our duty and we will fulfil it to the end. This will ultimately strengthen our country from within, as well as its foreign policy positions."
Latest Stories
-
Quincy Jones: His brilliance explained in 10 songs
3 hours -
Nigeria and Britain hail partnership to boost economic ties, security
4 hours -
Chad threatens to withdraw from multinational security force
4 hours -
Cocoa farmers hoard beans in anticipation of price hike, reports Reuters
4 hours -
Boat capsizes off Comoros islands, 25 killed, UN agency says
4 hours -
How are votes counted in the US election?
4 hours -
Mozambique presidential runner-up escapes alleged assassination attempt
5 hours -
Nigerian children who collapsed in court released
5 hours -
Integrity lacking in Ghana’s business history, says Dr David Ofosu-Dorte
5 hours -
Quincy Jones: From ‘street rat’ to music mastermind
5 hours -
Bawumia outlines plans to develop three major railway lines alongside road projects
5 hours -
I want you to be millionaires through my responsible mining policies – Bawumia assures miners
6 hours -
‘Constitution reigns supreme in Ghana’- Declares Attorney General
6 hours -
‘Efua Ghartey’s GBA presidency has a divine touch’, says Attorney General Dame
6 hours -
Esports Ghana: Stakeholders gear up for pivotal meeting in Accra
6 hours