I must admit that we have yet to understand how [Donald Trump] will develop his idea, his pledge to make America great again, but I hope this will not hinder the development of our cooperation.

Russia should be competitive, be able to protect its own interests and influence the processes that are important to it.

As a rule, [populism] is done for the sake of political expediency by those who do not care about the consequences, who do not think even one step ahead, who do not want to think and do not intend to honour their commitments.

Everyone must be equal before the law, abide by it, pay their taxes and bear the punishment should they break the law.

Political activities in Russia should be as transparent as possible. Financing political activities from abroad is something the state should keep an eye on.

Judo has been part of Japanese culture for a long time. It makes sense to me that this sport, which is both athletic and philosophical, was created in Japan. It is based on respect for the partner and for our elders as our teachers, which is very important and makes a strong, positive contribution to human relationships, and not only in sports. I am happy that life brought me to this wonderful sport as a child. It is like my first love.

Whoever is the first to cry "Stop the thief" is the one who is guilty.