Russia: "Biden's Visit to Ukraine Not Special... Only Raises Tensions"

"Devaluation: 'No Impact Expected from the Russia Situation'"

[Asia Economy Reporter Koo Chae-eun] On the 21st (local time), Russia downplayed U.S. President Joe Biden's sudden visit to Kyiv, Ukraine, the day before, saying there was nothing special about it.

The day before, President Joe Biden made a surprise visit to Kyiv for the first time since the war, ahead of the first anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. This was Biden's first visit to a war zone since taking office.

[Image source=Yonhap News]

According to foreign media, Dmitry Peskov, Kremlin spokesperson, said in an interview with local broadcasters on the day regarding Biden's visit to Kyiv, "It was not special to us at all. It will have no impact on the internal situation in Russia."

However, he added, "Such events are important. Naturally, we have been watching closely," and said, "We will also closely observe the visit to Poland." He went on to claim, "In the end, it is highly likely to be a continuation of Russophobia, new weapons support, and escalating tensions."

Meanwhile, President Biden said in Kyiv, "The United States is here. We will not leave," and stated, "Putin's war of conquest is failing." He also announced a new military aid plan worth $500 million (approximately 650 billion won) for Ukraine.