Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a departure from his typically more restrained rhetoric, employed increasingly harsh language toward those he considers adversaries during a meeting with his top generals this Wednesday. He accused “European piglets” of aligning with the previous U.S. administration in hopes of profiting from Russia’s potential collapse.
Escalating Rhetoric and Military Posturing
Putin dismissed European warnings of a future conflict with Russia as “hysteria” and “lies.” Simultaneously, he announced the deployment of Russia’s new hypersonic ballistic missile, the Oreshnik, for combat use, and stated his intention to achieve all objectives in Ukraine “by force if necessary.” He reiterated a preference for a diplomatic resolution but asserted Russia would “liberate its historical territories” militarily if negotiations fail.
The shift in Putin’s language, mirroring the more extreme rhetoric of figures like Dmitri Medvedev, suggests a growing influence of hardliners within the Kremlin. Defense Minister Andrei Belousov stated Wednesday that “real conditions” exist for the invasion of Ukraine to continue through 2026, indicating a commitment to a prolonged conflict despite initial setbacks.
Seeking Influence, Preparing for a Long War
Putin also appears to be attempting to influence former U.S. President Donald Trump, suggesting a Russian victory is inevitable and seeking his pressure on Kyiv to surrender. He claimed his army has gained experience in “breaking through the enemy’s deep defenses,” despite limited territorial changes in nearly four years of fighting – a timeframe comparable to the length of the Eastern Front in World War II.
Belousov asserted that Kupiansk is currently under Russian control and its capture will expand the “security zone” in bordering Ukrainian regions. Moscow continues to demand not only the provinces of Donetsk, Luhansk, and Crimea, but also Zaporizhzhia and Kherson – territories it unilaterally annexed in 2022 – along with an undefined “buffer zone” along the remainder of the border.
Nuclear Posturing and Economic Strain
Putin reiterated resentment toward the West following the collapse of the USSR, stating that the West lacks “civilization” and is instead experiencing “total degradation.” He dismissed claims of an inevitable confrontation with Russia as “lies,” despite previously denying plans to invade Ukraine in 2022 and concealing troop movements into Crimea in 2014.
The Russian Defense Ministry estimates NATO is preparing for a confrontation with Russia in the early 2030s. Putin announced the Oreshnik missile will be operational before the end of the year, stating the primary goal of Russia’s nuclear forces is to “maintain the balance of power internationally.” The Oreshnik, capable of carrying nuclear warheads, reportedly has a high degree of accuracy, and was reportedly used in an attack on a military factory in the Dnipro region of Ukraine late in 2024.
Belarus, which served as a launchpad for the 2022 Russian offensive toward Kyiv, will also deploy Oreshnik missiles provided by Moscow before year’s end. Russia also deployed nuclear weapons to Belarus in 2023.
The financial burden of the war is also becoming apparent. Belousov estimates the cost of the invasion of Ukraine at 5.1% of Russia’s GDP, approximately 115 billion euros, with total defense spending reaching 7.3% of GDP in 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Oreshnik missile?
The Oreshnik is a new Russian hypersonic ballistic missile that can reportedly strike targets thousands of kilometers away with high accuracy and can carry nuclear warheads. It entered combat service before the end of 2024.
What territories is Russia demanding from Ukraine?
Russia is demanding the provinces of Donetsk, Luhansk, and Crimea, as well as Zaporizhzhia and Kherson – territories it annexed in 2022 – and an undefined “buffer zone” along the rest of the Ukrainian border.
How is the war impacting the Russian economy?
The war in Ukraine is costing Russia approximately 5.1% of its GDP, or around 115 billion euros, with total defense spending reaching 7.3% of GDP in 2025, requiring “strict optimization and prioritization” of the military budget.
Given the escalating rhetoric and military preparations, what impact might these developments have on the prospects for a negotiated settlement in Ukraine?
