Putin Says Russia Will Accomplish ‘All Goals Set’ in Ukraine

AFP/APP

Moscow: Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday vowed that Moscow would accomplish all the goals it has set in Ukraine, marking the third year of conflict.

“The truth is on our side. All goals set will be achieved,” Putin said in a video message released to mark the second anniversary of what Russia calls “Reunification Day,” when Moscow annexed four Ukrainian regions.

After sending troops into Ukraine in February 2022, Russia annexed Lugansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson, although it does not fully control these regions. Putin reiterated his claim that the military intervention was to protect Russian speakers from a “neo-Nazi dictatorship” aimed at cutting them off from Russia.

He also criticized “Western elites” for turning Ukraine into a “colony” aimed at Russia and for promoting “radical nationalism” and hostility toward Russia.

“Today we are fighting for a secure, prosperous future for our children and grandchildren,” he added.