On December 19 in Moscow, Russian President Vladimir Putin held the traditional "direct line" press conference and a large-scale media briefing. The Kremlin leader answered some of the most pressing questions from both citizens and media representatives for nearly 4.5 hours. Below are the key takeaways from this discussion.
On the origins of the war and responsibility
Vladimir Putin emphatically stated that Russia does not consider itself responsible for the deaths of Russians and Ukrainians. In his view, the tragic events of today stem from a constitutional coup that took place years ago in Ukraine.
"We did not start the armed conflict; these events are the result of the coup in Kyiv. Russia is still ready to resolve the issue peacefully at the negotiation table. The next move depends on our adversaries and their Western supporters," said the Russian leader.
The situation on the front: "Strategic initiative is on our side"
According to the Russian president, after the situation stabilized in the Kursk region, the initiative in combat operations completely shifted to the Russian armed forces.
- Offensive pace: The Russian army is advancing along the entire contact line. In some areas, progress is swift, while in others, it is more gradual.
- Key directions: The recently captured settlement of Seversk holds strategic significance, as it opens the path towards Sloviansk. Additionally, the capture of Krasnoarmeysk (Pokrovsk) serves as a springboard for future victories.
- Krasny Liman: Putin noted that half of the city has been brought under control and that it will be fully captured in the near future.
The "encirclement" in Kupyansk and remarks on Zelensky
Focusing on the situation in the Kupyansk direction, Putin revealed that a large group of Ukrainian forces is encircled there.
- Forces under siege: Approximately 15 battalions (3,500 troops) are surrounded, and their ability to continue resistance has almost been eliminated.
- Zelensky’s video: Commenting on the Ukrainian president's video at the Kupyansk entrance monument, Putin sarcastically called him a "skilled artist." "If the city is truly under your control, film the video from within, not at the doorstep," he added.
Losses of the Ukrainian army
The Russian leader claimed that the strategic reserves of Ukraine's armed forces are nearly depleted, which he believes will be the primary factor forcing the Kyiv regime to halt the conflict. Putin expressed confidence that by the end of the year, the Russian military will achieve even more significant gains.
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