During the annual Russian Defense Ministry board in December, Vladimir Putin announced not only the continuation of the war against Ukraine but also aggressive intentions toward other European countries. This public statement sent a signal to Ukraine’s Western partners to step up their support. Russian Defense Minister Belousov also made several controversial and false claims about the front-line situation.
Belousov once again stated that Russian forces had supposedly captured Kupiansk, despite Ukrainian President Zelensky’s recent visit to the city and evidence from Western analysts that Russia does not fully control the area. Other Russian military fakes, such as fabricated battlefield geolocations, were also exposed.
In their speeches, Putin and Belousov asserted that NATO and European countries were preparing for war against Russia and ramping up their defense capabilities. According to them, Russia is preparing for potential conflict with Europe, intensifying propaganda, and conducting mobilization efforts.
Russia’s position remains unchanged: it has no intention of ending the war against Ukraine and, instead, seeks to expand its aggression to Europe. This requires further response from Western partners and urgent progress in Ukraine’s military and economic reforms.
The author notes that Ukraine’s military is currently critically underfunded and under-equipped, but continues to defend the country thanks to donor and volunteer support, including the use of innovative drones. Recommendations include striking Russian targets, accelerating military reforms, and coordinated societal support for fundraising and innovation.
In summary, analysis of Russian leadership speeches points to the Kremlin’s rejection of real negotiations and preparation for potential escalation beyond Ukraine. Both Ukraine and its European partners must be ready and strengthen defense capacities.
