Summary
Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a televised year-end press conference, said Russia should have invaded Ukraine earlier with better preparation.
He defended his policies, highlighting strengthened ties with China, Russia’s aggressive nuclear doctrine, and military gains in Ukraine, while dismissing claims of setbacks.
Putin claimed economic “stability” despite sanctions but acknowledged 9.1% inflation.
He emphasized “sovereignty” as a key success of reducing Western reliance.
The press conference was highly choreographed and tightly controlled.
Yeah, Russia is exhausted after 4 years of war.
Putin really hoped Trump would have won against Biden. So he could invade sovereign nations without US support. Now he had to stretch out the war until he got Trump back in the saddle.