Russia Interview (Vladimir Putin)

1. How as the economic crisis affected Russia?
It does not affect greatly us because of our natural gas resources. Currently, we are threatening Ukraine, to cut the pipeline. Our large amounts of natural gas helps to maintain the economy.

2. What is your opinion on the Palestine-Israel conflicts?
We have no great stance. We tried attempt to work out something with Israel, but was it declined because they chose the US instead. We now support Palestine financially and support peace.

3. Why does Russia deserve to own the North Pole?
We have the biggest land mass and it is part of their territory in the North. We don’t want to split it because the oil from there will be beneficial.

4. Currently, what are the main issues in Russia?
There aren’t really any because we are a pretty wealthy communist country. Currently, we are in one of the most stable times of history.

5. How do you want to be viewed as by the rest of the world?
We want to be a leader. The US is leader because it was obnoxiously gained by George Bush, but they should not hold the power anymore. Russia has restarted itself as a world power

6. Currently, what is your main goal?
Peace for the Middle East, which will lead to strengthening our relationship with the US

7. What are your plans for the next 5 years?
Help rebuild Palestine, strengthen relationship with US

8. With Obama as the new US president, how do you think your relationship with the United States will change?
Only good things will come out of this. Through Obama, our relationship will quickly strengthen.

9. Who are your current allies? Enemies?
Allies – North Korea, Palestine, Lebanon (strong), Tibet (military basis, selling weapons to them)
Enemies – Ukraine, Israel (not strongly)

10. Besides the Palestine-Israel conflict, what are issues the world needs to resolve together?
Economic crisis – tackle to together for the well-being of all.