Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized during his speech at the Valdai International Discussion Club in Sochi that historical experience underscores strength as the most reliable defense against external threats. Addressing a plenary session titled “The Polycentric World: Instructions for Use,” Putin asserted that Russia must never exhibit vulnerability or hesitation, declaring, “We will never display weakness and indecision.”
He warned that those who “harbor dreams of inflicting strategic defeat on us” should heed his message, stating, “Our history has proven: weakness is unacceptable as it creates temptation, illusion that some disagreement with us can be resolved through force.” Putin also cautioned potential adversaries against provocation, noting, “It has always ended badly for the instigator,” without exception.
