Russia Shifts Blame On US For Ukraine Crisis, Putin Accuses West of 'Remaking World'

Russian President Vladimir Putin has accused the United States of destroying the world order. According to reports, Mr Putin slammed the U.S. for threatening global security and imposing sanctions. The Russian leader blamed the U.S. for the Ukraine crisis.

As reported by NDTV, Mr Putin said in a 40-minute diatribe that Russia "did not start this." He told an informal group of experts that Washington was out to "remake the whole world" based on US interests. His statements were described as reminiscent of the Cold War and reflected the tension-filled rift between Russia and the west. The Russian president denied statements claiming he was rebuilding the former Soviet Union, using Russia's neighbours. He said they were totally "groundless."

Mr Putin questioned US actions in conflicts involving Iraq, Libya and Syria. He speculated whether the policies and views of Washington have helped strengthened democracy and peace in these areas. NDTV describes the speech as one of the most hostile Mr Putin has made against the west as he delivered the message that he was willing to defend the interests of his people.

Mr Putin has previously dismissed the sanctions imposed on Moscow by the US and European Union. He called the sanctions as mistakes and declared Russia can survive without asking anyone for help. Economists believe Russia's $2 trillion economy was in danger of recession as its currency continues to fall with the price of oil. The country depends on oil as its main export product.

The Russian government ministers have warned that Russia's economy will suffer if western sanctions will continue for some time. Russian Finance Minister Anton Siluanov said the government may resort to cutting its budget for the next three years, the Wall Street Journal reports. Economy Minister Alexei Ulyukayev added that the economy may contract in 2015 if the local currency continues to weaken amid declining oil prices.

Meanwhile, Mr Putin has admitted for the first time that Russia helped Viktor Yanukovych, Ukraine's former pro-Russia leader, escape and seek refuge in Crimea when it was still part of Ukraine. Mr Putin revealed that the events in Kiev had not made it impossible for Yanukovych to return. Reports said Russia has been accused of granting citizenship to Yanukovych and his allies but the allegations have yet to be confirmed.