Putin says Kyiv’s economy depends on western ‘handouts’ as Russia moves to choke Ukraine’s exports?

Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned of a possible economic crisis in Ukraine, claiming Kyiv could face currency, budget and banking pressures if agricultural exports are disrupted. Speaking in Bishkek, Putin said Ukraine earns around $3 billion from grain and other agricultural exports while receiving about $5 billion in Western support. He claimed Russia’s recent actions came after Ukrainian attacks damaged Russian vessels and infrastructure, while denying that Moscow deliberately targets civilian ships. Putin also described some Ukrainian proposals as “exotic” and argued that Russia needs negotiators willing to pursue a peaceful settlement. His claims come amid continuing Russia-Ukraine tensions and attacks on infrastructure.