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Putin says Ukraine chokes on corruption, even in top echelons of power

The Russian leader reminded that authorities in Kiev had taken office under a motto of the fight against corruption

SOCHI, July 21. /TASS/. Ukraine chokes on corruption, which exists even in the highest echelons of power, Russian President Vladimir Putin said during the televised "Serious Talk with Vladimir Putin" Q&A with children held at the Sirius Educational Centre for Gifted Children in Sochi on Friday.

"They [new politicians in Ukraine] came to power. And what? Corruption has increased. Ukraine is choking on this corruption, what is more in the top echelons of power and further down," he said.

Putin reminded that authorities in Kiev had taken office under a motto of the fight against corruption.

"It is not enough to shout ‘Stop the thief!’ but they should not steal either," he said.