Summary
Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a televised year-end press conference, said Russia should have invaded Ukraine earlier with better preparation.
He defended his policies, highlighting strengthened ties with China, Russia’s aggressive nuclear doctrine, and military gains in Ukraine, while dismissing claims of setbacks.
Putin claimed economic “stability” despite sanctions but acknowledged 9.1% inflation.
He emphasized “sovereignty” as a key success of reducing Western reliance.
The press conference was highly choreographed and tightly controlled.
“I should’ve…”
What a fuckup. They just gave him the keys to the country?
The people voted!
Ironically enough, Republicans used footage of Russians stuffing ballots as evidence of democrats stuffing ballots.