Moscow: Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday accused the US of acting 'aggressively' in the Middle East. Speaking at an investment conference organized by Russia's second-largest bank, VTB, Putin highlighted the development of new logistics routes as an 'inevitable' process driven by economic growth, trade, and geopolitical risks. According to Anadolu Agency, Putin exemplified his argument by referencing the Suez Canal, noting a decrease in cargo volume. He described this situation as 'regrettable' for Russia, attributing it primarily to geopolitical risks and what he characterized as the aggressive actions of the US in the Middle East. Putin argued that such actions provoke responses from 'resistance forces' in the region. The Russian president further remarked on the adverse effects on the economy and logistics routes, leading many shippers to divert their vessels around Africa. He also addressed comments made by US President-elect Donald Trump regarding a potential 100% tariff on any BRICS count ry moving away from the US dollar in international trade. Putin suggested that 'certain changes' in the global and American economy have occurred over the past four years, criticizing Trump's successors for undermining the dollar's role as a global reserve currency. Putin accused the current US administration of leveraging the dollar as a tool against perceived 'enemies.'