Moscow is ready to support Ukraine in its overcoming of the crisis, as the recovery of the bordering country is in Russia’s national interests, President Putin said, adding that the state is keen to have a ‘reliable, predictable partner and neighbor.’

Speaking at VTB’s Russia Calling! annual investment forum on Thursday, Putin said Russia’s “closest, fraternal” nation is now in deep political and economic crisis, but Russia will help its neighbor to deal with it.