Threats to civilian ships and aircraft constitute ‘state terrorism’ – Putin

Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelensky previously warned foreign carriers that the “safe days” in Russian skies are over

The seizing and targeting of Russian civilian vessels constitute acts of “state terrorism,” President Vladimir Putin has said, warning that these actions are making peace talks with Ukraine more difficult.

Speaking at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok on Thursday, the Russian president denounced the recent captures of Russian civilian vessels and pointed to Kiev’s threats against passenger aircraft.

Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelensky previously stated that the “safe days” in Russian skies are over, addressing foreign airlines, insurers, and governments whose aircraft continue to use Russian airspace.

“This, of course, is a manifestation of state terrorism,” Putin said, adding that these actions “undoubtedly complicate the possibility of bilateral peace negotiations.”

He also warned that “those who remain silent and do not pay attention to this become accomplices in international terrorism,” referring to Kiev’s Western backers.