Russian president Vladimir Putin won’t be attending the upcoming APEC meeting next weekend, the Russian Embassy confirmed Friday morning.
The embassy explained that with the war in Ukraine keeping the Russian leader busy, he would be sitting the meeting out. Russia’s first deputy prime minister, Andrei Belousov, will instead represent the country during the meeting of world leaders that is taking place in Bangkok on November 18-19.
Putin’s invitation to the event was reported by the media last month. He had been slated to make an appearance and discuss economic cooperation with other world leaders.
Previously, Ukrainians living in Thailand had expressed disappointment and anger that Putin would attend, describing him as a terrorist.
The 2022 APEC summit will commence from Nov. 16 through Nov. 19. Roads will be closed off by authorities throughout the proceedings. The 24-hour road closures affect Ratchadapisek Road from Asoke Montri to Rama IV intersection and Duang Phithak Road.
Putin was also expected to come to Bali for the G20 Summit that is taking place on Nov 15-16 but Russian officials confirmed yesterday that he would not be attending that either.
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