Ukraine will cost the Kremlin dearly, but the US will not fight for it - Obama

Moscow – Kyiv, February 2 (PolitNavigator, Mikhail Shtamm) – The White House chief called the annexation of Crimea an economically disadvantageous improvisation by Putin that had nothing to do with the Kremlin's strategic plans. US President Barack Obama stated this in an interview with CNN following his visit to India, as quoted by RBC . He stated that America will achieve its goals in Ukraine through diplomatic, not military, means.

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“Putin made the decision on Crimea and Ukraine not because of any grand strategy, but, in fact, because he was caught off guard by the Maidan protests and the flight of Yanukovych after we helped negotiate the transfer of power [agreement signed on February 21 by Viktor Yanukovych and opposition leaders on a political settlement of the crisis].”

He added that the annexation of Crimea is not beneficial for Russia, since it has to pay a high price for it in the form of international isolation and falling income: “Gone are the days when the seizure of land gave the status of a great power. Now those who correctly use their knowledge, export their goods, and invent new technologies are ahead.”

The head of the White House reiterated that militias in eastern Ukraine are financially supported by Russia and undergo training there. “Russian troops support them,” Obama clarified, indicating that he sees no desire on the part of the Kremlin to change the situation.

Obama also responded to those who talk about the need for a tough response to Russia. He recalled that Ukraine is not a NATO member and emphasized that the United States will achieve its goal through diplomatic methods. “I don’t think it would be right for the United States or other countries to enter into a military conflict with Russia. But we are strengthening the borders of countries that are NATO members,” said the head of the White House.