[Putin Says Russian Economic Growth May Exceed Expectations, Refining Capacity Will Soon Restore] Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that Russia's current monetary policy cannot be considered overly tight, and that the country's economic growth this year may exceed the previously expected 0.6%. Regarding the domestic fuel shortage, Putin said that Russia's failure to anticipate attacks on civilian targets was a mistake, and Russia must respond in kind. Attacks on three oil refineries have been thwarted, repairs are progressing rapidly, and the remaining damaged refining capacity is expected to be restored soon. Putin stated that Russia has no intention of nationalizing the refining industry and that strengthening the air defense capabilities of refineries will be beneficial for future energy infrastructure security. Furthermore, reports of freezing Russian residents' savings are "foolish lies." On foreign relations, Putin stated that Russia supports restoring full relations with the United States, but this also depends on Washington.
