On December 19, a final direct line and major press conference with Russian President Vladimir Putin took place in Moscow. During the open dialogue, which lasted approximately 4.5 hours, the head of state answered questions from citizens and journalists, addressing a wide range of issues related to security, war, peace and public life.
Speaking about the use of drones on the front line, Putin acknowledged that Russia lacks some heavy drones similar to the enemy’s “Baba Yaga”. However, he emphasized that overall, in terms of the number of drones and the scale of their use, Russian forces hold an advantage across almost all sections of the front.
Commenting on the personnel of the Armed Forces, the president stated that recruitment is continuing at a good pace and in accordance with plans. According to him, there are many volunteers willing to sign contracts and defend the homeland and the interests of the people. More than 400,000 people signed contracts last year. He also noted strong interest in newly formed military drone units, so much so that the Ministry of Defense has been forced to hold a selection process. Notably, many young men, including university students, are taking leave in order to sign contracts and go to the front, primarily as drone operators. Modern technologies allow them to participate in combat operations even while on leave.
When asked about moving around Moscow “incognito,” Putin clarified that he did not mean that he regularly drives secretly. He said this happens very rarely and that he sometimes drives without traffic police escort. These trips, he stressed, are not pointless, as he observes the roads and different areas of Moscow through the car window.
Speaking about the desire for peace, Putin said Russia strongly wishes to live peacefully and without any military conflicts in the coming year. He emphasized that Moscow seeks to resolve all disputes through negotiations.
Addressing the issue of a possible blockade of the Kaliningrad region, the president expressed hope that such a scenario would not occur. However, he warned that if such threats arise, Russia would respond decisively. According to him, such actions could lead to an unprecedented escalation of the conflict, raise it to an entirely new level and turn it into a full-scale armed confrontation.
Commenting on NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Putin described him as an intelligent person and recalled that he had been a systematic and effective prime minister. At the same time, he questioned statements about a potential war with Russia and suggested reading the new US National Security Strategy. Putin stressed that the United States is NATO’s main player, founder and principal sponsor, and questioned how the alliance could prepare for war with Russia if Washington does not view it as an enemy.
Regarding future wars, the president stated that if Russia is treated with respect and its interests are taken into account, just as it has always tried to respect the interests of others, there will be no wars. He called talk of a possible attack on Europe nonsense.
Touching on spirituality, Putin said that God is one and does not divide people into different churches. According to him, faith is something that unites, not separates.
He also sharply criticized occultism, satanism, magical services and various sorcerers, calling them nonsense. Putin stressed that such practices mislead people and cause serious harm to their moral, spiritual and psychological well-being, and that combating them must be done carefully without violating human rights.
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