Ukraine is the closest country to us. We have always said that Ukraine is our sister country and it is true. It is not just a Slavic people, it is the closest people to Russia: we have similar languages, culture, common history, religion etc.

I only had a telephone conversation with [Donald Trump], whereas [Shinzō ] Abe met with him in person.

At the request of our Japanese partners, we have reopened these talks [about territories]. What command is given in this case in judo? You probably know better than I do: Yoshi (continue). So we will continue.

Democracy is not possible without effectively working legal system.

I am sure that, after all, any man in my place should set a positive example for other people.

The sanctions have nothing to do with our relations with China, because our relations with the People's Republic of China are at an unprecedented high both in terms of their level and substance. They are what we call "a comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation".

The mutual sympathy of our peoples is and will remain the foundation of our relations [with Germany].