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During a conference lasting more than four hours, Putin highlighted military advances, revealed tough conditions for negotiating peace, challenged the US with its Oreshnik hypersonic missile and promised a “stable” economy despite sanctions.
Russia closed out 2024 with a four-hour telethon hosted by Vladimir Putin. The event, titled “Results of the Year with Vladimir Putin,” featured a thorough review of Russia’s agenda and a glimpse of plans for 2025. With an optimistic and challenging tone, the Russian leader addressed the war in Ukraine, the country’s economy, and even floated a bold proposal involving the United States. But what does it all really mean?
Military advances in Ukraine and Syria
During the conference, Putin highlighted military advances that he said put Russia at an advantage. He said the “special military operation” in Ukraine has achieved tangible results, with the Russian army gaining territory daily. In Syria, military efforts would also have consolidated strategic positions.
However, any peace deal with Ukraine seems far off. Putin has been clear: he does not recognize Zelensky as a legitimate interlocutor. Instead, the Russian president has put forward conditions that include Ukraine’s neutrality, withdrawal from NATO and an end to Western sanctions against Russia. These demands were quickly rejected by Kiev and its allies, highlighting the rift in the negotiations.
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Russian economy amid war: optimism or warning?
The war has begun to take a significant toll on the Russian economy. With annual inflation at 9,3 percent and interest rates high, Putin acknowledged the challenge but maintained an optimistic tone. He said real wages had increased and the overall economic situation was “stable and secure.”
For the coming year, Russia must adopt strategies to circumvent sanctions and ensure economic stability. Putin assured that the country will continue to invest in industrial modernization and in projects that increase self-sufficiency.
Russian military strength and the “missile duel”
Putin raised eyebrows by proposing a “missile duel” with the United States involving the Oreshnik hypersonic missile. Designed to be highly destructive, it was presented as a direct response to Ukraine’s use of American and British missiles. The statement was seen as a bold move to reassert Russian military power.
While such a duel is unlikely to actually happen, the proposal symbolizes Russia’s willingness to escalate the conflict if necessary. The Oreshnik, with its ability to carry up to six warheads, is a reminder of the Kremlin’s technological and strategic intentions.
Putin's personal transformations
Putin admitted that the invasion of Ukraine changed his personal outlook. He said he had lost his sense of humor and rarely laughed. For him, war was a difficult decision, but necessary to prevent the “national collapse” of Russia.
The conference also served as a warning to the West. Putin sought to demonstrate Russia’s resilience in the face of sanctions and project its military and technological strength. The message was clear: Russia is ready to resist and advance.
Putin's plans for 2025 reinforce Russia's determination to consolidate its military, economic and political power. Although the conditions for peace seem distant, the Kremlin has shown that it will not back down. Between economic challenges and global tensions, the coming year promises to be crucial for Russia and the international scene. Putin is ready. Is the world?
