Putin Blames West for Ukraine Crisis, Peace Talks Uncertain

• Russian President Vladimir Putin accused Western countries of triggering the Ukraine crisis by supporting a power change in Kyiv.
• Putin stated the conflict originated from Western actions, including events in Crimea, Donbass, and Novorossiya, adding they are "reaping what they sowed."
• The next round of US-brokered peace talks between Russia and Ukraine remains uncertain amidst the ongoing conflict.
• Putin criticized Ukrainian leadership, using "the tail wagging the dog" analogy, for manipulating European countries with demands for weapons and affecting energy supplies.
• He also extended International Women's Day greetings, praising women's strength and leadership, including those in military and "special military operation" zones.