Claims and warnings: 6 key takeaways from Tucker Carlson’s controversial Putin interview

Inside Vladimir Putin's mind: Key takeaways from the Tucker Carlson interview

In an unusual but rather significant departure from his diplomatic circles, Vladimir Putin engaged in a candid interview with former Fox News anchor Tucker Carlson in Moscow. Carlson released the full video of the interview on Friday, February 9, marking Putin's first engagement with a Western journalist since the onset of the Russia-Ukraine conflict approximately two years ago. The rare encounter offered insights into Putin's perspectives on various global issues. Following are six eyebrow-raising moments and key discussions from the extensive two-hour conversation.

1. Vladimir Putin's perspective on Elon Musk

During the interview, Vladimir Putin delved into discussions about the future of mankind, drawing parallels to historical figures and events. After traversing through history, Putin contemplated the emergence of a "superhuman" in modern times. When questioned by Tucker Carlson about the onset of the "AI empire", Putin deferred, suggesting Elon Musk might offer insights. He remarked, "I think there’s no stopping Elon Musk. He will do as he sees fit." However, the Russian leader also stressed the necessity for international agreements to address the threat “from unbridled and uncontrolled development of AI or genetics or any other field".

2. Warning against US troop deployment in Ukraine

Putin's warning against the deployment of US troops to Ukraine reverberated with implications of global conflict. Accusing the US of "cheap provocation", Putin cautioned against actions that could escalate tensions. “If somebody has the desire to send regular troops, that would certainly bring humanity to the brink of a very serious global conflict,” he told Carlson. Putin urged the US to address domestic issues and engage in diplomatic negotiations with Russia instead. “Don’t you have anything better to do? You have issues on the border. Issues with migration, issues with the national debt. More than $33 trillion. Wouldn’t it be better to negotiate with Russia? Make an agreement. Already understanding the situation that is developing today, realizing that Russia will fight for its interests to the end," he said.

3. Allegations of CIA involvement in Nord Stream attacks

Putin made a striking claim regarding the sabotage of the Nord Stream gas pipelines linking Germany, Finland, and Russia. The attacks, which occurred in international waters, prompted speculation, with Russia initially suspected of involvement. However, Putin pointed the finger at the CIA, alleging their role in the sabotage. When Carlson asked who was responsible for the attack, Putin humorously retorted, “You for sure." Carlson responded by joking he was “busy that day". However, refusing to delve into specifics, Putin cryptically suggested looking "for someone who is interested” and who “has capabilities".

4. Boris Johnson's role in Ukraine-Russia conflict

Putin reiterated his allegations that Boris Johnson interfered with a peace deal between Ukraine and Russia brokered with Turkey's assistance in the spring of 2022. "Prime Minister Johnson came to talk us out of it and we missed that chance. Well, you missed it," Putin said. The Russian strongman questioned the rationale behind yielding to Johnson's demands or persuasion, considering it absurd. “The fact that they obey the demand or persuasion of Mr Johnson, the former Prime Minister of Great Britain, seems ridiculous. Where is Mr Johnson now? And the war continues.” Carlson pondered, "That’s a good question. Where do you think he is, and why did he do that?" Putin said he “did not understand it," adding, “Because of arrogance, because of a pure heart, but not because of a great mind."

5. Russia's disinterest in expanding conflict

Putin's assertion of Russia's disinterest in expanding the conflict to neighboring countries conveyed a strategic stance. He highlighted Russia's focus on self-defense and national interests, rather than aggression towards other nations. "Only in one case, if Poland attacks Russia. Why? Because we have no interest in Poland, Latvia, or anywhere else. Why would we do that? We simply don't have any interest," he insisted.

6. Potential prisoner swap involving Evan Gershkovich

During the extensive two-hour interview, Putin hinted at the possibility of releasing Evan Gershkovich, the Wall Street Journal reporter detained in a Russian prison for nearly a year on unverified espionage charges. Putin indicated ongoing back-channel discussions with Washington regarding Gershkovich's potential release, stating, "Special services are in contact with one another. They are talking about the matter in question." He expressed optimism about reaching an agreement, affirming, "I believe an agreement can be reached."