Putin Attributes Ongoing Conflict Responsibility to Ukraine During Annual Press Briefing

During his annual televised press conference in Moscow, Russian President Vladimir Putin shifted the responsibility for the prolonged conflict in Ukraine onto Kyiv, emphasizing Russia's stance in current negotiations. Addressing both journalists and citizens, Putin maintained that Moscow is open to dialogue, but sees no substantial willingness for peace from the Ukrainian government.

The press event, which combined the yearly press conference with the traditional "Direct Line" session, covered a range of subjects, with the Ukraine conflict dominating the discussion. According to Putin, while there have been some signals from Kyiv regarding dialogue, Russia perceives a lack of genuine intent for a peaceful resolution. He reiterated Moscow's position that any progress depends on the Ukrainian administration and its Western supporters meeting previously stated demands.

Negotiations and Demands

Putin asserted that Russia is prepared for a peaceful settlement, provided its conditions are met. These include, but are not limited to, the withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from the Donbass regions of Donetsk and Luhansk, and the implementation of policies that would limit Ukraine's military capabilities. Russia's requirements also extend to influencing government operations in Kyiv, with no indication of any relaxation in these expectations.

Direct talks between Russia and Ukraine have yet to occur, though discussions involving the United States continue. Putin acknowledged efforts by former US President Donald Trump to mediate, stating that Russia had largely agreed to US suggestions for peace during a previous meeting in Alaska. However, he underlined that a formal agreement remains elusive, and the latest round of negotiations is set to continue in the United States over the weekend.

Military Situation and Territorial Claims

The Russian president conveyed confidence in the military's position, claiming that Russian forces maintain strategic initiative along the frontlines. He forecasted further advances by the Russian military before the end of the year and cited the capture of several Ukrainian towns as evidence of ongoing success. In particular, he described the situation in Kupiansk, Kharkiv region, as being under Russian control, contradicting Ukrainian reports that most of the city has been retaken by their troops.

Putin also mentioned a significant increase in voluntary enlistments, stating that more than 400,000 individuals have signed contracts for military service with Russia's defense ministry in the current year.

International Financial Support and Sanctions

The European Union recently agreed on a financial support package for Ukraine, amounting to 90 billion euros in interest-free loans. Efforts within the EU to channel frozen Russian state assets to Ukraine have so far been unsuccessful, with Putin labeling such actions as attempts at unlawful appropriation. He expressed Russia's intent to pursue legal avenues for the restitution of these assets, insisting that any seized funds would eventually have to be returned.

Domestic Economic Measures and Public Engagement

Domestically, Putin justified the upcoming rise in Russia's value-added tax from 20 to 22 percent, attributing the increase to the need for additional budgetary resources amid the ongoing conflict. He suggested that taxes could be reduced in the future depending on economic conditions.

The event also featured questions ranging from economic policy to science, with lighter moments such as a marriage proposal and a humorous exchange about a distant comet. Putin assured the public that the comet posed no threat to Earth, addressing concerns from the audience.

Overall, Putin used the high-profile platform to reiterate Russia's negotiating terms, outline the country's military and economic positions, and deflect blame for the ongoing war onto Ukraine and its Western backers. No major policy changes or compromises were indicated during the session.