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Russian President Vladimir Putin rejected accusations that Moscow stirred up protests in European cities, telling state channel Vesti that the demonstrations stem from the mistakes made by European governments themselves, including in economic and financial policy.

In the same interview, Putin addressed migration pressures in Europe and the continent's energy dealings with Russia, criticizing both European integration efforts and restrictions on Russian energy supplies.

Criticism of Europe's energy policy

Putin said Russia has never refused to supply energy to Europe and recalled that it was European countries that decided to stop buying Russian oil, natural gas, coal and uranium. "We did not refuse to supply anyone. They gave up, and they are still making plans to give up products they continue to buy from Russia," Putin said.

Supplies have continued despite the restrictions, according to Putin, who said Russian liquefied natural gas accounts for 20% of the European market, "an important share of the market." Putin called the policy of banning everything that comes from Russia "stupid, completely stupid," saying that experience has shown it does not work.

Putin also said some foreign companies were forced to leave the Russian market under pressure from European governments.

Key takeaways

• Putin rejected claims that Russia provoked mass protests in major European cities.
• Public debt exceeds 100% of GDP in some European countries and reaches 139% in Italy, Putin said.
• Russian LNG makes up 20% of the European market, according to Putin.
• Putin called Europe's policy of banning all Russian goods "completely stupid."