from Sputnik News:
President Vladimir Putin addressed the Russian Defense Ministry board, summing up the year’s developments in the military operation in Ukraine. He also discussed the global situation and outlined other measures to ensure the country’s security.
Russian President Vladimir Putin outlined key objectives for strengthening the country’s defense capabilities and advancing the Armed Forces during an expanded session of the Defense Ministry board.
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He also highlighted significant achievements and ongoing challenges faced in 2024.
“Today, we will review the main results of work over the past year, define tasks for strengthening defense capabilities and further develop the Armed Forces,” Putin stated.
He stressed the importance of improving the armed forces’ combat readiness and capacity.
“We are paying serious attention to improving the combat structure of our Armed Forces and increasing their potential,” Putin said.
Advances Against Ukraine
Reflecting on 2024, Putin called it a pivotal year in achieving the goals of the special military operation.
“This year, 189 settlements were liberated,” he said, noting that Russian forces hold the strategic initiative along the front line.
“Thanks to the professionalism and courage of our soldiers, the heroic work of defense industry workers and the nationwide support for our army and navy, our troops maintain firm control over the strategic initiative,” the president said.
He expressed deep gratitude to those on the front lines and in supporting roles.
“I want to sincerely thank our heroes — soldiers and officers — who fight selflessly on the front lines, as well as the personnel of the Ministry of Defense, the National Guard and special services,” Putin said. “They carry out even the most difficult tasks without sparing themselves or their lives for victory and for the Motherland.”
The president underscored the need for continued vigilance and unity, reaffirming the government’s commitment to ensuring the country’s security and achieving its strategic goals.
Turning to external challenges, Putin accused the United States of fueling the conflict in Ukraine by supplying weapons, funds and military advisors.
“In an effort to weaken our country and inflict a strategic defeat, the US continues to pump weapons and money into the illegitimate regime in Kiev, encouraging further escalation of the conflict,” he said.
