On Friday, eight days after Moscow dispatched troops into Ukraine, President Vladimir Putin urged Russia’s neighbors not to exacerbate tensions.

“We have no ill will towards our neighbors.” Furthermore, I would advise them not to exacerbate the problem or impose any limits. In televised remarks, Putin stated, “We fulfill all of our responsibilities and will continue to do so.”

“We don’t see why our relations should be aggravated or worsened here.” And all of our acts, if they occur, are always in response to hostile activities, actions directed towards the Russian Federation.”

Putin was seen on television participating in a flag-raising ceremony for a ferry in northern Russia from his home outside of Moscow.