Putin Affirms Russia's Military Involvement in Ukraine and Plans to Run for Fifth Term
Russian President Vladimir Putin announces that 617,000 Russian troops are currently fighting in Ukraine, expressing confidence in the country's ability to move forward despite Western sanctions. He also states his intention to run for a fifth term in March.
In a year-end press conference, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that there are currently 617,000 Russian troops fighting in Ukraine. He further disclosed that around 244,000 of these soldiers were called up to assist professional Russian military troops. Putin dismissed the need for another wave of mobilization, stating that 300,000 men were drafted last year. Despite facing Western economic sanctions and political isolation due to its military involvement in Ukraine, Putin expressed confidence in the country's ability to "move forward." He assured Russian citizens that the ongoing conflict would not significantly impact their lives.
This announcement came just after Putin declared his intention to run for a fifth term in March, a move that could prolong his rule until 2030. Putin highlighted the strengths of Russia, including the consolidation of Russian society, the resilience of the financial economic system, and the increasing capabilities of the Russian army. However, he acknowledged the rising inflation as a challenge. One of the main aims for his next term is to strengthen Russia's sovereignty, with a particular focus on defense capabilities and external security.
During the press conference, Putin also mentioned the importance of safeguarding the rights of citizens, despite the government's crackdown on dissent at home. He emphasized that peace with Ukraine would only be possible after the country achieved its goals in the ongoing conflict. These goals include the "de-nazification and de-militarization of Ukraine" and its neutral status. It is important to note that the term "de-nazification" used by Putin has been criticized by survivors of the Holocaust, as it is a loosely defined term that potentially distorts the historical context.
Overall, Putin's press conference provided insights into the ongoing military involvement in Ukraine, his plans for the future, and the challenges facing Russia. The announcement of his intention to pursue a fifth term, combined with the reassurance to citizens amidst the conflict, sets a significant tone for the upcoming year in Russian politics.