Putin slams West’s ‘economic aggression,’ vows proactive response

Russia’s President Vladimir Putin slams the “economic aggression” that is being practiced by the “collective West” against the country, pledging that Moscow will take “proactive” action against the West’s hostile economic campaign.

Putin delivered the remarks on Friday, addressing Russia’s Council of Legislators in St. Petersburg on Friday, Russia Today reported.

The West, led by the United States, has been imposing numerous rounds of sanctions against Russia since last February when the latter began a special operation against its neighbor Ukraine. Moscow has denounced both the bans and the West’s incessant arming of Kiev as counterproductive measures that would only prolong the conflict.

Adding to his remarks, Putin urged the country’s lawmakers and other authorities to work “proactively” against the Western economic measures rather than just “waiting out” the tough times.

He urged the creation of a “basis for the long-term, independent, and successful development of our country.”