Moscow: Russian President Vladimir Putin declared that the year 2025 represents "an important stage" in achieving the goals of the "special military operation" in Ukraine. During a speech at the Defense Ministry headquarters in Moscow, Putin emphasized that the Russian military holds the strategic initiative firmly along the entire front line.

According to Anadolu Agency, Putin stated that the Russian Armed Forces have liberated over 300 settlements this year. Despite Western military support to Ukraine, including weapons supplies and troop training, Russian forces continue to advance, targeting elite units trained in Western military centers. Putin noted Russia's potential to accelerate its offensive in key strategic directions.

Putin also highlighted the strengthening of Russia's military capabilities. This year, the navy's fleet was enhanced with new submarines and 19 surface ships and vessels. Additionally, new weapons were introduced following successful tests of the nuclear-propelled Oreshnik, Burevestnik, and Poseidon systems. The Oreshnik system, specifically, is expected to be operational by the end of the year, having been used in Ukraine in November 2024.

In response to Ukrainian shelling, Putin announced plans to expand Russia's security buffer zone. He dismissed Western warnings of a potential Russian attack on Europe as unfounded, claiming European politicians are inciting fear about an inevitable confrontation with Russia. He reiterated that Russia's strategic nuclear forces aim to deter aggression and maintain global power balance.