[Photo Credit to Pixabay]

Russian President Vladimir Putin held his annual year-end press conference, addressing  key issues including the Ukraine war, strained relations with the West, new president-elect Trump, and Russia’s domestic economy. 

Putin, who has held power for over 25 years, used the conference to project his authority and assert confidence to both domestic and international audiences. 

Lasting approximately four and a half hours, the speech was held on December 19 at Gostiny Dvor in Moscow, Russia. 

During the address, the Kremlin leader reviewed key achievements and outlined priorities for the upcoming year. 

Observers anxiously awaited Putin’s comments about the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, a costly and controversial war that has been going on since February 2022, which is widely regarded as the greatest challenge to Putin’s authority. 

One of the standout statements was Putin’s claim that he “should’ve launched his full-scale invasion of Ukraine earlier”, and that Russia could’ve prepared more thoroughly ahead of time.

Projecting an air of authority with an assertive tone, Putin stated that Russia is nearing its primary objectives in Ukraine, citing recent advancements as evidence. 

Framing the war to emphasize military successes and justify the war as a necessity, Putin remained vague, avoiding providing a set date on when Ukrainian soldiers would leave Russia’s region. 

Going as far as to say that the Ukraine war had made Russia “much stronger” , Putin dismissed the Ukrainian president Zelenskyy illegitimate. 

Taking his hardline and maximalist stance on the Ukraine war, the Russian president said he would be willing to negotiate only if strict conditions like Ukraine not joining NATO, the lifting of sanctions against Russia, and recognition of Russia’s territorial claims are met. 

As a highly orechestrated event, Putin appeared upbeat and self-assured, as he sought to reinforce his image as a strong leader. 

On the change in  U.S. leadership, Putin expressed willingness  he was ready to meet Trump “any time”. 

While criticizing the Western nations’ use of sanctions, as well as American foreign policy for being destabilizing, Putin expressed  cautious optimism for Trump bringing a more pragmatic approach. 

Another stand out claim was when Trump suggested a high-tech “missile duel”  with the U.S. in Ukraine as a way to boast about Russia’s new Oreshnik hypersonic ballistic missile. 

In addition, Putin also addressed domestic issues facing the Russian citizens, particularly economic challenges, which were the second most popular topic of questions after the Ukraine war. 

Overall, in the areas of domestic economy, energy, military and security, the Kremlin leader stressed the importance of Russia’s self-reliance. 

The end of year conference served as a key opportunity for Putin to reinforce his image as a decisive leader, as well as for the Kremlin to control the narrative on key topics, especially about Ukraine. 

While acknowledging ongoing issues such as high consumer prices and inflation, Putin emphasized the stable economy as well as projected growth. 

Putin defended Russia’s  ability to withstand external threats in his speech, and also stressed the need for the Central Bank to manage internal difficulties better. 

The Kremlin leader’s statements have far-reaching implications as his comments signal continued tension with the West and Russia’s vision of a multipolar global system.