Russian President Vladimir Putin, in his annual press conference, asserted that Russian troops are advancing along the entire front line in Ukraine, while also suggesting openness to peace negotiations – albeit under specific conditions. The address largely focused on detailing perceived Russian gains in key cities and regions.
Russian Advances Claimed in Key Areas
Putin highlighted ongoing military operations in the Donetsk and Kharkiv regions, claiming partial control of the cities of Mirnograd (also known as Dimitrov) and Kostiantivka, both in Donetsk. He stated Russian forces control 50% of both cities, with Mirnograd reportedly encircled and Ukrainian troops attempting to escape in small groups. He expressed confidence in fully consolidating control over Kostiantivka.
Regarding Kharkiv, Putin asserted that Kúpiansk came under Russian control “several weeks ago.” Current efforts, he said, are focused on eliminating Ukrainian troops positioned on the left bank of the Oskil River, where he claims approximately 3,500 Ukrainian soldiers – comprising 15 battalions – are surrounded.
Negotiations and Conditions
Despite emphasizing military progress, Putin indicated he had received signals suggesting Ukraine might be willing to engage in dialogue to end the war. However, he stressed that Kyiv remains unwilling to discuss territorial issues, which he identified as the primary obstacle to negotiations. Russia, he reiterated, remains open to a peaceful resolution, contingent upon the withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from the four regions annexed by Moscow in 2022.
Putin also addressed the issue of frozen Russian assets held abroad, warning that European countries would be compelled to return them, and that Moscow would pursue legal avenues to recover these funds, characterizing the current situation as an “open robbery” against Russia.
Conflicting Reports on Battlefield Control
Official Russian data claims the military has taken over 6,300 square kilometers of Ukrainian territory in 2023, and nearly 94,000 square kilometers since February 2022 – an area comparable to Hungary and roughly one-fifth of Ukraine. However, these figures sharply contrast with independent assessments. The Institute for the Study of War estimates Russian control at less than 5,000 square kilometers, representing less than 1% of Ukrainian territory.
Ukrainian military leadership offers a different perspective. Army Chief Oleksandr Sirski stated that Kyiv has largely expelled Russian forces from Kúpiansk and now controls approximately 90% of the city. President Volodimir Zelensky recently visited Kúpiansk and filmed a video in front of a city sign, seemingly to demonstrate Ukrainian control.
Frequently Asked Questions
What regions did Putin specifically mention as seeing Russian advances?
Putin specifically highlighted the Donetsk and Kharkiv regions, mentioning Mirnograd, Kostiantivka, and Kúpiansk as areas where Russian forces are making gains or have already established control.
What is Russia’s primary condition for peace negotiations with Ukraine?
According to Putin, Russia’s primary condition for peace negotiations is the withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from the four regions annexed by Moscow in 2022.
What did Putin say about the possibility of Ukraine being open to negotiations?
Putin stated he had received signals indicating Ukraine might be willing to engage in dialogue, but emphasized that Kyiv is currently unwilling to discuss territorial issues.
Given the conflicting reports regarding control of key cities and regions, and the stated preconditions for negotiations, what impact might these developments have on the future trajectory of the conflict in Ukraine?
