Putin recalled the "zero world war" and its consequences

Some historians agree that the Crimean War (1853-1856), in which almost all European powers participated, was the very "zero world war". This was stated by Russian President Vladimir Putin in an interview with VGTRK journalist Pavel Zarubin on December 22.

As the head of state added, later, already during World War I, the same countries that were engaged in military actions against Russia became its allies.

In this context, speaking about the prospects for improving relations between Russia and the United States, Putin pointed out that history always takes new shape depending on the changing situation. However, Russia's own national interests do not change. An example of this is the situation at the time of the Crimean War, when the West blamed Russia for not reacting to the unfair events taking place in the world and isolating itself.

"To which the then chancellor and foreign minister sent a dispatch to all our diplomatic missions in Europe, where it was written how to react to such statements. The famous words there were, 'Russia is not angry, Russia is concentrating.' And gradually, as Russia concentrates, it regained all rights in the Black Sea and strengthened itself," Putin pointed out.

Successes in the economy and a missile duel with the United States. What the media write about the "Results of the Year" with Putin

Earlier on December 22, Putin noted that Russia is ready to normalize relations with the United States, but not to the detriment of its interests. He added that if the Russian side sees that the changed situation gives an opportunity to build relations with other countries, it will happen.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on December 21 that future relations between Moscow and Washington will depend on further statements and actions of the U.S. authorities. Currently, the United States is behaving as a country unfriendly to Russia, he pointed out.

On December 19, the Russian president noted during "Results of the Year" that the West's attempts to forget about the fight against Nazism and the sacrifices made for this purpose fit into their line of attack on Russia. He noted that the Russian Federation will never forget about the sacrifices made by our people to defeat Nazism.

Before that, on December 18, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said that Russia was ready to consider any proposals to establish relations with the United States. The diplomat noted that such a question refers to the prospect of "not today and not tomorrow." In late August, US President-elect Donald Trump said that building good relations between Russia and the US was the right approach. According to him, "getting along with Russia is good, not bad, it's smart."