Gorbachev expresses concerns over state of the world in video address at Prague conference

The last leader of the former Soviet Union Mikhail Gorbachev, who introduced the reforms of perestroika and glasnost in the 1980s eventually leading to the fall of communism in Europe, has expressed serious concerns over world affairs, from the migrant crisis and terrorism to economic sanctions and worsening ties between Russia and the West. Mr Gorbachev spoke via a video address to attendees of a two-day Prague conference on security and Russia. The 85-year-old had himself been due to attend but in the end declined on doctor’s orders due to health problems. Mr Gorbachev said it was not possible to “hide behind sanctions”, saying that responsibility lay with everyone involved. Russia has been hit by continuing sanctions following the annexation of Crimea from Ukraine in 2014. Mr Gorbachev said that in order to overcome the crisis it was necessary to start with Europe – including Russia.

Author: Jan Velinger