What's happened
On December 31, 2025, Vladimir Putin delivered a New Year’s address to Russia, rallying troops fighting in Ukraine and framing the conflict as an existential struggle with the West. Despite ongoing fighting and international efforts for peace, Russia emphasizes military progress and national unity.
What's behind the headline?
Putin’s recent address underscores his focus on rallying domestic support and framing the Ukraine conflict as an existential battle against Western influence. The speech’s tone is more subdued compared to previous years, reflecting a possible shift towards emphasizing unity over military escalation. The claims of battlefield advances and drone attacks are contested, with Ukraine and Western allies skeptical of Russia’s narrative. The emphasis on buffer zones and military progress suggests Russia aims to justify deeper incursions into Ukrainian territory, despite widespread public desire for peace. This speech signals that Russia will likely continue its military efforts into 2026, resisting diplomatic solutions, and maintaining a narrative of national resilience. The international community remains cautious, with some countries criticizing Russia’s claims of attacks and escalation, while others call for renewed peace efforts. The ongoing conflict’s impact on civilian populations and regional stability will persist, with no immediate resolution in sight.
What the papers say
The Independent reports that Putin used his New Year’s address to rally troops and frame the war as an existential struggle, emphasizing belief in victory and national unity. The New York Times highlights Putin’s message of fighting for 'truth and justice,' and notes the subdued tone compared to previous addresses, reflecting a possible shift in messaging. The Moscow Times discusses the public’s hope for peace amid ongoing fighting and the increasing support for negotiations, despite Russia’s military actions. Al Jazeera details Putin’s call for support of soldiers and the ongoing battlefield claims, including alleged drone attacks and buffer zone expansions. Contrasting opinions include Western skepticism of Russia’s claims of attacks and battlefield progress, with Ukraine and allies warning against propaganda and false flag operations. The articles collectively depict a Russia committed to military efforts while publicly expressing a desire for peace, though the reality on the ground remains complex and unresolved.
How we got here
Since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the conflict has persisted with no definitive resolution. Russia has sought to portray the war as a fight for sovereignty and national unity, while international peace efforts, including U.S.-mediated negotiations, have failed to end hostilities. Public opinion in Russia shows increasing support for peace negotiations, but fighting continues with significant casualties on both sides.
Go deeper
Common question
-
What Are the Key Global Security Risks in 2025-2026?
As tensions rise around the world, understanding the latest developments in regional security is crucial. From military alliances in Africa to China's military drills near Taiwan, these events shape the future of global stability. Here are some of the most pressing questions about current international security issues and what they mean for the world.
-
What Did Putin Say in His New Year Address?
Russian President Vladimir Putin's New Year speech has garnered attention worldwide. In his address, Putin emphasized unity and support for Russian troops fighting in Ukraine, while notably avoiding mentions of peace negotiations. This speech marks a significant moment, coinciding with the anniversary of his rise to power. Many are wondering what his words mean for Russia and the global situation. Below, we explore the key points of Putin's message and what it signals about Russia's current stance and future actions.
More on these topics
-
Russia, or the Russian Federation, is a transcontinental country located in Eastern Europe and Northern Asia. Covering an area of 17,125,200 square kilometres, it is the largest country in the world by area, spanning more than one-eighth of the Earth's in
-
Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin is a Russian politician and former intelligence officer who has served as President of Russia since 2012, previously holding the position from 1999 until 2008.
-
Ukraine is a country in Eastern Europe. It is the second-largest European country after Russia, which borders it to the east and northeast.