Putin said Russia's current monetary policy cannot be characterized as overly
tight and economic growth this year may exceed the prior 0.6% forecast. He said
attacks on three oil refineries were foiled, repair work is progressing rapidly,
and the remaining damaged refining capacity is expected to be restored soon. He
said Russia does not intend to nationalize the refining sector and will
strengthen air defenses at refineries to secure energy infrastructure. He
dismissed reports of freezing Russian residents' savings as "stupid lies". On
foreign relations, he said Russia supports restoring full ties with the United
States, but that depends on Washington.
