Zeman explained that before the current aggression, Russia was perceived by other states as a normal country that was talked to and traded with.
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“But the situation has changed fundamentally with the moment of Russian aggression in Ukraine, and when the situation changes, so will your opinion,” he said. Zeman in conversationwho led last Friday.
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At the same time, the president admitted that the Russian attack on Ukraine was a “cold shower” for him.
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Zeman was also asked about a statement in which he described the Russian annexation of Crimea in the past as a “fait accompli”, ie a done deal.
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“I have never questioned that Russia occupied Crimea in violation of international law and that it was and is wrong. The only thing I did in Strasbourg at the time in 2017 was to name that famous ‘elephant in the room’. Yes, it was a bit undiplomatic and I would not be talking so honestly about it today.
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The president claims that the statement was intended at a certain time for a certain audience.
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He also noted that no one asked aloud what would happen to Crimea if Russia did not give it up. “What exactly and will Kyiv do? What will the EU and NATO do, of course, except that it may repeat indefinitely that Crimea is not Russian? ” Zeman asked.
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According to him, the conflict is leading to a “wear roller”. “One of the logical consequences of this situation could and should be that armed conflicts will eventually be replaced by diplomatic negotiations. However, the condition is the suspension of the fighting and direct negotiations between the presidents of both countries, “added the Czech president, according to whom he is currently far from a diplomatic solution.
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