"Putin's Year-End Address: Propaganda Masterclass Amidst Russia-Ukraine Conflict"

During his year-end press conference, Russian President Vladimir Putin faced criticism from ordinary Russians when their text messages were accidentally displayed on a screen in front of him. The messages questioned the reality portrayed by the Kremlin and highlighted issues such as lack of education and healthcare in the country. Putin defended his war in Ukraine, stating that peace would only come when Russia achieved its aims. He also inadvertently revealed higher Russian losses in the war than previously admitted. Amidst the press conference, Russia launched missile attacks on Ukrainian cities. Putin also mentioned the possibility of a prisoner swap deal with the US, involving the release of Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich and American citizen Paul Whelan. EU leaders agreed to open membership talks with Ukraine, despite opposition from Putin ally Viktor Orban.