The collapse of the Soviet Union was the greatest geopolitical catastrophe of the century.
Analyse
The quote is widely attributed to Vladimir Putin, who stated it in his 2005 State of the Nation address. There is no credible evidence that Dmitry Medvedev ever made this exact statement. The misattribution likely stems from their close political association.
Achtergrond
Vladimir Putin's 2005 address emphasized regret over the USSR's dissolution, framing it as a tragedy for Russians. Medvedev, while part of Putin's administration, never publicly echoed this exact phrasing.
Samenvatting verdict
Dmitry Medvedev did not make this statement; it was said by Vladimir Putin.
Geraadpleegde bronnen
— Putin's 2005 State of the Nation Address (Kremlin archives)
— BBC News: 'Putin calls Soviet collapse a tragedy' (2005)
— Reuters: 'Putin laments Soviet Union's fall' (2005)