"We have never exacerbated relations ... with our partners," Putin told reporters in Shanghai Thursday. "We do not respond to provocative statements ... we pursue a well balanced policy, not least with the United States. People with common sense in the U.S. understand us."
U.S. Vice President Dick Cheney accused Russia last month of using its energy resources to blackmail neighboring nations, and also attacked the largest former Soviet republic for backsliding on democracy.
Putin said Russia was ready to compromise on a wide range of issues, but bemoaned the lack of a similar approach from the United States.
"They want it quick, immediately, and in a way they consider proper," he said. But he said President George W. Bush and some other politicians in the White House took a more dovish approach toward Russia.
"Those who are wiser understand that Russia will be useful for them," he said.
