In a year-end press conference, Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that Russia should have launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine earlier, emphasizing the need for better preparation for what he termed a “special military operation.”
He acknowledged that systemic planning was necessary prior to the 2022 invasion, which followed the annexation of Crimea in 2014.
During the four-hour event, broadcast live on state television, Putin addressed a range of topics, including Russia’s nuclear doctrine, the situation in Syria, and domestic concerns like rising food prices. He maintained that Russia had regained its “sovereignty” since the era of Boris Yeltsin, asserting that the country was not in a weaker position despite international pressures.
Regarding Syria, he claimed the recent fall of Bashar al-Assad’s government was not a defeat for Russia and indicated ongoing discussions with Syria’s new leadership about maintaining military bases along the Mediterranean coast.
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Putin also highlighted the deepening ties with China, stating relations had reached unprecedented levels. While he expressed openness to compromises to end the war in Ukraine, he reiterated that Russian forces were making daily progress on the frontlines.
He concluded by addressing domestic issues, acknowledging concerns over inflation and economic stability, while emphasizing the importance of Russian sovereignty in the face of Western sanctions.
