Journalist:
A very important question. Russia currently controls a large part of Kharkiv Oblast and other areas. Was the exchange of these territories discussed during the negotiations, and for what?
Medinsky:
The issue of possible territorial exchanges is brought up from time to time from different sides. Let me remind you of the history. After Ukraine's invasion of the Kursk region, a decision was made - our president spoke about it more than once - to create a security zone along the border with the Russian Federation. This area is now quite significant. It is expanding, and it will continue to expand. I don't see an option to replace these areas.
Because again, as our leader said so clearly, wherever our Russian soldier steps, he is ours. And as the whole history of Russia has shown, every time we have shown a willingness to make concessions, to compromise ourselves in a bad way, to show peace and a conciliatory attitude - every time we have taken steps to avoid what we thought were difficulties, to accommodate our opponents - it ends up in us suffering war and even greater shame, too.
But every time Russia showed firmness and self-confidence, all difficulties were overcome, and a period of peace, tranquility and long-term development came. Both for us and for our neighbors. Therefore, where the Russian flag is raised, it must not be taken down.
The mission is elsewhere, and that's what we talked about today. The task is to create a comprehensive security system in Europe that will become a new and modern Yalta and Potsdam, imbued with the spirit of Helsinki 1975, responding to a new, and just, modern reality.
If we manage to create such a security system, we will guarantee peace in Europe for decades, and maybe even centuries. This is our main goal.
journalist.