In a striking end-of-year press conference, Russian President Vladimir Putin admitted that Russia should have launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine earlier, asserting that better preparation could have altered the trajectory of the conflict. Referring to the 2022 invasion, which he calls a "special military operation," Putin acknowledged with hindsight the need for "systemic preparation" before engaging in the war.  

 

Putin’s comments revisited Russia’s seizure of Crimea in 2014 and the subsequent pro-Russian conflict in eastern Ukraine, emphasizing that it took eight years before attempting a decisive move to capture Kyiv. Despite the ongoing war, Putin expressed openness to compromises, though he offered no clear vision of what these might entail.  

 

The Russian leader devoted a significant portion of the marathon session to the war in Ukraine, describing Russian forces as “heroes” who are making progress on the frontlines "every day." At one point, he presented a signed flag from Russian marines fighting in the Kursk region, a gesture seemingly aimed at bolstering national morale.  

 

I asked Vladimir Putin: “25 years ago Yeltsin handed you power & told you 'Take care of Russia.’ Do you think you have? In light of significant losses in Ukraine, Ukrainian troops in Kursk region, sanctions, inflation…” Here’s his reply.

I asked Vladimir Putin: “25 years ago Yeltsin handed you power & told you 'Take care of Russia.’ Do you think you have? In light of significant losses in Ukraine, Ukrainian troops in Kursk region, sanctions, inflation…” Here’s his reply. Producer @LizaShuvalova @BenTavener pic.twitter.com/60G9ncVZiy

— Steve Rosenberg (@BBCSteveR) December 19, 2024

 

When addressing the West's reaction to Russia’s revised nuclear doctrine, Putin deflected, saying, “You’ll have to ask them.” The new doctrine, which Putin championed in November, permits Russia to conduct a nuclear strike on any country backed by a nuclear power under certain conditions. This includes significant attacks on Russia or allied nations, such as Belarus, or threats to Russian sovereignty.  

 

Highlighting Russia’s military advancements, Putin touted the capabilities of the intermediate-range ballistic missile Oreshnik, which was reportedly deployed in a strike on Ukraine in November. In a provocative suggestion, he proposed testing its power by targeting Ukraine, challenging Ukrainian air defenses equipped with U.S.-supplied systems to intercept it. When questioned about the missile's name, Putin smirked and replied, “Honestly, no idea. No clue.”  

 

The theme of Russian sovereignty featured prominently throughout the conference. Putin framed reduced reliance on international partnerships—largely a consequence of Western sanctions—as a key achievement of the war. He praised the resilience of Russia’s economy, citing higher growth rates compared to nations like Germany. However, he acknowledged challenges, including inflation at 9.1%, which he described as “alarming.”

 

Analysts suggest that the economy is overheating and increasingly reliant on military production, often referred to as the "military-industrial complex."  

 

Putin also touched on relations with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, revealing that the two had not spoken in four years but expressing willingness to meet “if he wants it.” When pressed on whether he was in a weaker position compared to Trump, Putin humorously quoted Mark Twain, saying, “The rumors of my death are much exaggerated,” eliciting laughter from the audience.  

 

As the conference unfolded, it became clear that Putin remains committed to his strategic goals in Ukraine, framing the conflict as a test of Russian strength and sovereignty. His remarks offered a glimpse into his unwavering stance, signaling a long road ahead in the conflict with Ukraine and its Western allies.  

 

Based on a report by the BBC 2024-12-20

 

 

 

The economy will definitely collapse in ruins courtesy of Vlad and the citizens can do nothing

Meanwhile, Russia's army losses in the war against Ukraine have reached 770,000 soldiers. In just the past day, 2,200 Russian servicemen were killed on the front lines.
 

 

https://www.dailystar.co.uk/news/latest-news/breaking-putins-top-missile-scientist-34301094.amp

He’s talking even bigger rockets but his chemical works that make solid fuels have been degraded   So no rockets will get off the ground