Russian President Vladimir Putin issued a strong warning about the Ukraine war. He said Moscow will not end the operation until it reaches its objectives. He made this clear in an interview with India Today.

He insisted that Russia did not begin the conflict. Instead, he said Kyiv acted under Western influence and pushed the region toward war. The conflict has continued for almost four years now.

Putin also revealed what Russia wants from the war. He said the fighting will end only after Russia secures its aims, including “liberating Donbas”.

"Our special military operation isn't the start of a war, but rather an attempt to end one that the West ignited using Ukrainian nationalists," he said.

“All this boils down to one thing: Either we take back these territories by force, or eventually Ukrainian troops withdraw,” he added.

Putin Points to Deep Tensions With Ukraine

Putin highlighted serious tensions between Russia and Ukraine. He accused Kyiv of damaging Russian interests. He said Ukraine banned the Russian language in several areas. He also claimed that people were driven away from religious places such as temples and churches.

He stressed that Russia would go to any extent to protect its people and its traditions.

"The point is that Russia is determined and will certainly do so to protect its interests, protect its people living there, protect our traditional values, the Russian language, and so on," Putin told India Today.

He also claimed that Ukraine banned the Russian Orthodox Church and seized several places of worship. He said Russia is now fighting to re-establish its presence in these regions.

‘West backed Ukraine against Russia’

In the interview, Putin openly blamed Western nations for supporting Ukraine. He said they ignored the events that led to the war. He specifically referred to the 2014 removal of Ukraine’s former President Viktor Yanukovych.

"The West backed Ukraine and supported the events by orchestrating the coup d'état. That was the point that triggered the events in Crimea, followed by developments in southeastern Ukraine, in Donbass. However, they never mention it," Putin said..

He added that Russia first tried to find a peaceful solution. However, he claimed those efforts failed. He said Moscow then had no choice but to enter the war.

He also blamed Ukraine for violence in the Donbas region.

"After eight years of relentless violence against those citizens of Donbass, something the West hasn't uttered a word about, we were forced to recognise these republics first, and secondly, provide support," Putin said.

Putin Arrives in India After Four Years

Putin arrived in India for the first time in four years. Authorities gave him a traditional welcome at the airport. Cultural dancers performed for him.

After the ceremony, he left the airport in the same vehicle as Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He will remain in India from December 4 to 5.

The visit highlights the ongoing close relationship between India and Russia.