Russian President Vladimir Putin, from Beijing, stated that Russia has never been against Ukraine's membership in the EU, but that NATO membership is another issue, which directly affects Russia's long-term security.
He adds that a consensus on security guarantees for Ukraine could be reached if the conflict ends. Meanwhile, he calls any idea of Russia's aggressive plans towards Europe "absurd and baseless."
At the same time, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico declares that "a new world order is being created" and criticizes the EU for being excluded from these global discussions, adding: "Being part of the dialogue means not behaving like an insulted child."
While Fico meets with Putin and Xi Jinping, he will also meet with Zelensky on Friday. The European Commission, for its part, distances itself: "Fico does not represent the EU on this visit."
