The head of state also noted that such forms of xenophobia, as Americano-, Franco-, Anglo-and Germanophobia – are the same forms of racism as Russophobia and anti-Semitism
Russia has never considered and does not consider itself an enemy of the West, despite the ongoing conflict, Russian President Vladimir Putin said, speaking at the Valdai International Discussion Club plenary meeting Thursday.
“In current circumstances of brutal conflict – I will say some things straight – Russia, being an independent, self-sufficient civilization, has never considered and does not consider itself an enemy of the West,” he said.
The head of state also noted that such forms of xenophobia, as Americano-, Franco-, Anglo-and Germanophobia – are the same forms of racism as Russophobia and anti-Semitism.
The president added that, in his opinion, it is necessary to clearly understand that there are two Wests: one adheres to traditional, primarily, Christian values, freedom, patriotism, the extremely rich culture.
“This West is somewhat close to us, in many regards, we have common roots that stem from the ancient times,” he said.
He also included Islamic values to traditional values of this West, since a significant part of Western people practices Islam.
“But there is also a different West – aggressive, cosmopolitan, neo-colonial one, acting as an instrument of neo-liberal ideas. And Russia, of course, will never reconcile with the diktat of this West,” Putin underscored.
