Putin's Unwavering Goals in Ukraine: No Peace Until Achieved

Russian President Vladimir Putin stated in his end-of-year news conference that Russia's goals in Ukraine remain unchanged and there will be no peace until they are achieved. He emphasized the need for "denazification, demilitarization, and a neutral status" of Ukraine, while alleging that Ukraine's government is influenced by radical nationalist and neo-Nazi groups. Putin also reiterated his demand for Ukraine to remain neutral and not join NATO. He mentioned that there are currently 617,000 Russian soldiers in Ukraine and that there is no need for further mobilization of reservists. Other topics discussed included Russia's relations with China, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and the potential participation of Russian athletes in the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics.