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Putin told Slovakia’s Robert Fico that Russia never opposed Ukraine’s possible EU membership, while stressing NATO is different.
The comment came amid a week of alignment with China, where Putin hailed ties at a historic high.
Kim Jong-un’s presence, with his daughter, punctuated the parade week’s symbolism.
The pipeline deal with China signaled deepening energy interdependence.
Visa-free entry for Russians and signed cooperation papers pointed to a comprehensive partnership.