I should have invaded Ukraine earlier, Putin tells Russians in TV marathon
I should have invaded Ukraine earlier, Putin tells Russians in TV marathon
Putin tells an end-of-year press conference there should have been "systemic preparation" for the full-scale invasion.
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.