Editor’s Note
This report summarizes key statements from Russian President Vladimir Putin’s recent address to defense officials. The claims presented are from the Russian leadership and have not been independently verified. The broader context of the ongoing conflict and Ukraine’s position is not reflected in these remarks.
Russian President Vladimir Putin summarized this year’s invasion of Ukraine at an expanded meeting of the Ministry of Defense held on the 19th, stating, “Our forces hold the initiative,” and emphasized military achievements.
Speaking at the expanded meeting with defense ministry officials on the 19th regarding the invasion of Ukraine, Putin emphasized the continuation of hostilities, stating, “We are doing what we believe is necessary.”
At the same time, he acknowledged that problems have also become apparent, recognizing the need to improve communication systems and reconnaissance activities, and appealed for increased production of high-precision missiles and drones.
Furthermore, Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu touched upon Ukraine’s counteroffensive, arguing that due to fortifications such as mine-laying, “[Ukraine] was unable to break through the Russian military’s defensive zone.”