In a bold statement made to reporters on Thursday, Dec. 26, after a Supreme Eurasian Economic Council (SEEC) meeting in St. Petersburg, Russian President Vladimir Putin asserted his confidence in Russia's victory over Ukraine by 2025, citing divine support as a key factor.
This comes as the United States and Slovakia propose potential pathways to de-escalate the conflict, though Putin remains firm in his stance. Speaking at length on the ongoing Ukraine conflict, the Russian leader expressed his unwavering belief that "God is with us," referring to the Russian people and the nation as a whole.
When questioned about the possibility of a frozen conflict in Ukraine along current front lines in exchange for delaying Ukraine's NATO membership, Putin firmly dismissed the proposal, stating that a similar offer was previously deemed unacceptable by Moscow.
"At that time, we told the U.S. such a deal was unacceptable to Moscow," he remarked.
Despite the international community's efforts to mediate the conflict, Putin emphasized that Russia's top priority for 2025 is unequivocally focused on achieving military success on the battlefield.
The Russian president spoke optimistically about the future, saying, "We are striving to end the conflict. We believe that we will be successful on the front line and accomplish our objectives in the field of the economy, as well as resolve social issues, the issues of military security, and security in the broadest sense. We will continue moving in accordance with our plans."
In an unexpected revelation, Putin also indicated openness to Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico's proposal to host peace talks between Moscow and Kyiv. Fico, who visited Putin in the Kremlin on Dec. 22, reportedly suggested that Bratislava, given its neutral position, could act as a platform for such discussions.
Putin, seemingly impressed by the proposal, stated, "Slovakia takes such a neutral position," signaling his willingness to engage in talks.
However, these diplomatic overtures come in the wake of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's promise to broker a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine immediately upon his inauguration. (Related: Putin is ready to negotiate a CEASEFIRE with Trump.)
While detailed plans remain undisclosed, the suggestion of a ceasefire within hours of Trump's presidency has added a new layer of complexity to the ongoing conflict.
The international community is watching closely as the situation unfolds, with many nations expressing concern over the potential for prolonged conflict and its wide-ranging implications for global security and stability.
As the new year approaches, the conflict in Ukraine continues to be a focal point of global concern, with key leaders like Putin asserting their positions with unwavering determination.
The coming months will likely see increased efforts to broker peace, though the path to resolution remains uncertain, with Russia's military objectives and strategic interests continuing to shape the dynamics of the conflict.
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Watch this clip from TruNews about Russian President Vladimir Putin daring Western governments to try to shoot down one of Russia's new hypersonic missiles.
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