Vladimir Putin's Key Statements Following Presidential Elections' End

On March 15-17, Russia held presidential elections, the eighth in the country's modern history. The President of the Russian Federation is elected for a six-year term by the citizens of Russia on the basis of universal, equal and direct suffrage by secret ballot.
Sputnik

On Ukraine

Russia will consider with whom to negotiate peace in Ukraine, Putin stressed.
"At some point we will have to create a certain sanitary zone on the territories subordinate to the Kiev regime," he said.
The leader did not specify the depth of this zone, which is supposed to protect Russian regions from bombardment.

On the presidential election

The president stated that numerous foreign observers monitored the Russian presidential election, stressed that they were independent.
"I dreamed of a strong and independent Russia," the leader noted, stressing that he hopes "the election results will enable us to achieve this goal."

On relations with China

Common interests of Russia and China are a factor of stability on the world stage. Moscow will only develop its relations with Beijing in the years to come.
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On Macron's proposal to declare a ceasefire during the Olympic Games

"I don't know about it, we're ready to consider any issues, but we'll proceed from Russia's interests."

On the US presidential election

Russia has no preference for any of the candidates and will work with whoever is elected.
"I have every reason to believe that there is no democracy in American electoral processes today."