Putin and Defense Minister Discuss Ukraine Strategy

During a year-end news conference, President Vladimir Putin announced that Russian forces had 'liberated 189 settlements' in Ukraine and were committed to reclaiming the occupied regions of Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia, which Russia aims to fully control by 2025. Defense Minister Andrei Belousov reiterated that Russia would achieve these objectives as a prerequisite for any peace negotiations, insisting on Ukraine's withdrawal from these territories and abandonment of NATO aspirations. Putin emphasized the professionalism of Russian soldiers and accused the U.S. of prolonging the conflict by supplying Ukraine with military aid. Despite claims of advancements, significant portions of the claimed regions remain under Ukrainian control, with fierce resistance ongoing. The conference also reflected on the broader military strategy amid heightened tensions with NATO, with Belousov warning of potential future conflicts. Putin's comments come as the international community closely observes Russia's actions and the ongoing war in Ukraine.