Russian President Vladimir Putin (Photo: EPA/VNA)

Putin underlined that Russia has overcome its economic crisis, while inflation has decreased to 4.1%. During a 4-hour Q&A session in Moscow on Thursday, the Russian President stated that the US is not an enemy and Russia is interested in normalizing relations with Washington, which Russia hopes to play a positive role in dealing with the Ukraine’s crisis.

Putin said Russia’s short-term goal in Syria is to enhance the Syrian army’s fighting capacity, which will help reduce Russia’s military presence in Syria. Russian air force will support the Syrian army if necessary, he added.