ST. PETERSBURG, June 18. /TASS/. The regime of Vladimir Zelensky will pay any cost to stay in power, to the detriment of the country, Donetsk People’s Republic’s Head Denis Pushilin told TASS in an interview on the sidelines of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF).

"The regime of the current Ukrainian president is trying to preserve itself by any means necessary, regardless of any losses, including human ones. We saw where the Kursk gamble led. They did it for the PR, to curry favor and provide a reason to save their hides," he said.

The St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) is taking place on June 18-21. This year, the event will be held under the theme "Shared Values: The Foundation of Growth in a Multipolar World." Thematic zones such as the ‘Territory of Innovations’ and the national brand space ‘Buy Russian!’ will operate at the Forum.

The program includes the SME Forum, the Creative Industries Forum, the Day of the Future International Youth Economic Forum, the Drug Security Forum, and the Roscongress Urban Hub discussion platform. As part of the cultural program, the Petersburg Seasons festival will be held, and the SPIEF Sports Games will take place.

The Roscongress Foundation is the organizer of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum. TASS is its information partner.