Berlusconi: Putin's a real friend. He sent me 20 bottles of vodka for my birthday.

The news agency, LaPresse, has published a voice recording that appears to have been secreted since Berlusconi spoke with party members Forza Italy.

In that recording, Berlusconi said Putin was among his real friends “”.

“I have restored contacts with President Putin”, he said, pointing out how Putin sent “20 bottles of vodka and a very sweet letter”, on his birthday.

Berlusconi has said he has then sent Putin bottles of Italian wine and a also sweet “ ”.

Berlusconi has turned 86 years on 29 September, as the right-wing coalition -- including his party, Forza Italy -- has won the general election.

These comments were initially dismissed as <x0) old crimes” by Berlusconi's faithful.

However, in the recording, Berlusconi has said that the West is only at war with Russia, because it is giving “Ukraine, money and weapons”.

I can't personally express my opinion on this, because if the media knew it, it would be a disaster, but I'm very, very, very worried”, he added.

On Tuesday evening, Forza Italy has said Berlusconi's position towards Ukraine is in line with Europe and the United States.

The war in Ukraine has begun on February 24th.

Russian President Vladimir Putin considers the war “special military operation” to demilitarise Ukraine.

The West has responded to Russia, striking the economy of this state with severe sanctions.

As a result of the war, thousands have died, and millions of others have been displaced from their homes. / REL/