Putin's Controversial Claim: 'Ukraine is Ours'

In a bold statement, President Vladimir Putin asserted that Ukrainians and Russians are the same people, claiming that Ukraine belongs to Russia. Speaking at an economic forum, he discussed the possibility of extending Russian control to Ukraine's Sumy, while reiterating that Russia acknowledges Ukraine's sovereignty but questions its neutrality.

During an economic forum in St. Petersburg, President Vladimir Putin made a controversial statement, declaring Ukrainians and Russians as one people and claiming Ukraine as part of Russia. He did not dismiss the possibility of Russia taking control of the city of Sumy, a situation that heightens the geopolitical tension in the region.

Putin emphasized that, despite his declaration, Russia had never questioned Ukraine's sovereignty, referencing Ukraine's 1991 declaration as a neutral state. Nevertheless, he reiterated that Russia's intervention in Ukraine was a security measure, suggesting a deep-rooted intent to assert dominance.

Meanwhile, Kyiv and its Western allies continue to reject Moscow's territorial claims as unlawful. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy consistently opposes the idea that Russians and Ukrainians are one people, maintaining Ukraine's distinct national identity and independence.

(With inputs from agencies.)