Putin Frames War as Nearing Conclusion On December 31 2025, President Vladimir Putin told reporters that the conflict could be ended “by peaceful means,” projecting confidence that Moscow is close to victory despite ongoing combat [1]. He used high‑profile public appearances and rhetoric to suggest Russian forces are advancing along the front lines. The statement aimed to bolster domestic support by portraying the war as a winnable, imminent success.

Russian Forces Hold Approximately Twenty Percent of Ukrainian Territory Analysts cited in the report note that Russian troops occupy roughly 20 % of Ukraine’s pre‑war borders, a modest gain compared with Kremlin expectations. Control is concentrated in parts of the Donbas region and areas Russia labels “Novorossiya.” The limited territorial hold underscores the disparity between official optimism and on‑ground realities [1].

Putin Reiterates Commitment to Liberate Donbas and Novorossiya Ahead of a summit with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Putin told India Today that Moscow will “liberate Donbas and Novorossiya by any means,” reaffirming hard‑line territorial ambitions. The declaration signals that Russia intends to pursue these objectives regardless of diplomatic pressure. It also serves to strengthen ties with India by showcasing a decisive stance [1].

War Costs Moscow Over One Million Casualties The article estimates Russian military losses exceed one million personnel, highlighting the human cost of the protracted conflict. Such casualties strain Russia’s manpower reserves and affect public perception of the war’s progress. Despite these losses, the Kremlin continues to present the campaign as strategically viable [1].

Western Diplomacy Shows Mixed Signals Amid Sanctions Ongoing sanctions target Russia’s oil sector, while U.S. figures such as former President Trump and political operatives engage in intermittent talks with Moscow. Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov hinted that Russia might adjust its negotiating position as diplomatic efforts evolve. The combination of economic pressure and diplomatic overtures creates an uneven peace‑process environment [1].