US responsible for failing relations – Putin

In a recent interview with NBC News, Russian President Vladimir Putin blamed the United States for the current state of strained relations between the two countries. Putin stated that the U.S. had been consistently interfering in Russia's internal affairs and attempting to influence its political processes, which he believes has led to a breakdown in trust and cooperation.

Putin cited several examples of U.S. interference, including its support of the anti-government protests in Russia in 2011 and 2012, as well as allegations of U.S. involvement in the 2014 Ukrainian revolution that ousted the pro-Russian government in Kiev. Putin also accused the U.S. of attempting to spread its values and way of life around the world, which he believes is incompatible with Russia's traditional values.

Despite these tensions, Putin expressed a willingness to work with the U.S. on areas of mutual interest, such as arms control and counter-terrorism. He also stated that he would welcome a meeting with President Joe Biden, who he believes has a more constructive approach to relations with Russia than his predecessor.

However, Putin emphasized that any improvement in relations would require mutual respect and an end to U.S. interference in Russia's internal affairs. He stated that Russia was not seeking confrontation with the U.S. but would defend its interests and sovereignty if necessary.

The comments from Putin come amid ongoing tensions between the two countries, with both sides imposing sanctions on each other in recent years. The U.S. has also accused Russia of meddling in its elections and cyberattacks on U.S. government agencies and companies, which Russia denies.