Putin: Russia is ready for peace through negotiations

On December 19, 2023, a traditional press conference was held in Moscow with the participation of Russian President Vladimir Putin. This was reported by Zamin.uz.

During this event, the head of state answered the most pressing questions from citizens and journalists for more than four and a half hours. Below is a brief summary of the main points of this dialogue.

**Causes of the war and responsibility issue** Vladimir Putin emphasized that Russia is not responsible for the deaths of Ukrainians and Russians. In his view, the current conflict began with an unconstitutional change of power in Ukraine.

He stated that Russia has always been in favor of achieving peace through negotiations and that the decision on this matter now depends on the opposing side and the countries supporting them. **Situation at the front and strategic initiative** According to Putin, the Russian army has taken the initiative on the battlefield.

After the situation in the Kursk region stabilized, the Russian armed forces continue to advance. While rapid gains have been recorded in some areas, gradual progress is observed in others.

It was noted that strategically important areas such as Seversk, Krasnoarmeysk (Pokrovsk), and Krasniy Liman are coming under Russian control. **Situation in Kupyansk and views on Zelensky** Putin highlighted that the Ukrainian army suffered heavy losses in the Kupyansk direction.

A group consisting of 15 battalions there is encircled and their ability to resist is running out. He also commented on a video of Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky in Kupyansk, sarcastically calling him a “skilled artist.”

**Losses of the Ukrainian army** Putin said that the strategic reserves of the Ukrainian armed forces are running out, which could be a key factor forcing Kyiv to end the conflict. The Russian leader expressed confidence that his army will achieve new successes by the end of the year.

This press conference once again demonstrated the position of the Russian leadership on pressing issues.