Putin’s Year-End News Conference Set for Friday

On Friday, December 19, 2025, Vladimir Putin will hold his annual year-end news conference in Moscow. The event, a carefully orchestrated televised show, is expected to highlight the Kremlin's firm stance on the war in Ukraine. Putin is likely to reiterate his determination to continue the conflict until Russia's conditions are met. The conference serves to set the Kremlin's tone and messaging for the coming year, addressing key issues facing Russia, including the economy and the war. Millions of questions have been submitted, ranging from local concerns to major geopolitical issues, with the Kremlin using AI to manage the volume. Putin recently stated Russia will continue fighting until it achieves its goals in Ukraine.

On December 18, 2025, Vladimir Putin, speaking at a defence ministry meeting in Moscow, accused European leaders of seeking revenge against Russia. He referred to these leaders as "piglets" and alleged they were collaborating with the former US administration. Putin stated that the European leaders were motivated by the expectation of profiting from Russia's potential collapse. The Russian president's comments highlight ongoing tensions between Russia and Europe. The speech was delivered amidst a backdrop of heightened geopolitical uncertainty.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is urging the U.S. and allies to respond to Russia's "signals" that it is preparing for a prolonged war in 2024. Zelenskyy stated on Wednesday that Russia's actions contradict claims from the U.S. that Russia is interested in ending the conflict. He emphasized the need for security, financial, and political measures to counter Russia's intentions, including action on Russian assets. Zelenskyy warned that Russia's goals extend beyond Ukraine, potentially threatening other European nations. The statement comes as Russian President Vladimir Putin declared Russia will achieve its goals in Ukraine through either diplomacy or military force.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is urging the U.S. and allies to respond to Russia's "signals" that it is preparing for a prolonged war in 2024. Zelenskyy stated on Wednesday that Russia's actions contradict claims from the U.S. that Russia is interested in ending the conflict. He emphasized the need for security, financial, and political measures to counter Russia's intentions, including action on Russian assets. Zelenskyy warned that Russia's goals extend beyond Ukraine, potentially threatening other European nations. The statement comes as Russian President Vladimir Putin declared Russia will achieve its goals in Ukraine through either diplomacy or military force.