I often heard the same question: What place does Russia reserve for itself in the world; how does it see itself; what is its place? We are a peace-loving state and we want to cooperate with all of our neighbors and with all of our partners.

Russia, as well as any other country, does not need dictators, but it needs equitable principles of organizing the state and society: just, effective, flexibly responding to changes inside and outside the country - that is what Russia needs.

In the referendum - which was still decided to take place by the Crimea's old parliament - the majority of citizens voted for belonging to Russia. This is democracy, the people's will.

Our aims are absolutely clear: They are a high living standard in the country and a secure, free and comfortable life.

Challenging American leadership is not at stake.

The strengthening of our statehood is, at times, deliberately interpreted as authoritarianism.

You know every stage of your life has an impact on you.