President Vladimir Putin, in his New Year address to the nation, expressed confidence that Russia would continue to advance in 2025, though he refrained from making specific promises regarding the economy or the ongoing war in Ukraine.

Acknowledging concerns over rising prices and the strain of the central bank's 21% interest rate on businesses and homeowners, Putin assured Russians that their welfare remained his top priority. He framed Russia's current challenges as part of a broader historical mission, drawing parallels to past victories, including the nation's role in defeating Nazi Germany during World War II.

Reflecting on Russia's progress over the past 25 years—coinciding with his tenure as the country’s foremost leader—Putin highlighted accomplishments, resilience, and unity. "As we stand at the threshold of the new year, we look to the future with confidence. We know that the well-being of our citizens and the destiny of Russia remain our ultimate priorities," he said.

The address, recorded at the Kremlin, aired at midnight across Russia’s 11 time zones, beginning with the far eastern regions of Kamchatka and Chukotka. The occasion also marked 25 years since Putin first addressed the nation as acting president following Boris Yeltsin's resignation in 1999.

Paying tribute to Russian soldiers engaged in the conflict in Ukraine, Putin described them as heroes, saying, "We are proud of your courage and bravery. We believe in you." However, he made no mention of the battlefield situation or any prospects for peace, despite the impending inauguration of Donald Trump as U.S. president, who has pledged to quickly end the war without elaborating on his plan.

In 2024, Russian forces made their most significant territorial advances in Ukraine since the war's first year, now controlling approximately 20% of the country. Yet, these gains came with heavy, undisclosed losses in personnel and equipment. Meanwhile, Ukraine executed a surprising counteroffensive on August 6, seizing part of Russia’s Kursk region—the first such incursion on Russian soil since World War II. Despite deploying over 10,000 troops, reportedly from North Korea, Russia has yet to regain the territory.

The situation has sparked criticism from analysts. British security expert Ruth Deyermond noted that Russia’s focus on advancing in Ukraine has led it to overlook the occupation of its own land. "Great powers don’t take a 'nothing to see here' stance on losing territory, especially one so fixated on sovereignty," she commented. Deyermond also highlighted challenges to Russia’s global standing, including the loss of its ally Bashar al-Assad in Syria and its growing reliance on China.

Putin, now the longest-serving Russian leader since Josef Stalin, emphasized the stability and sovereignty achieved under his leadership. However, he admitted during a recent address that he regretted not launching the Ukraine invasion sooner. Describing it as a "special military operation," he maintained that it was a necessary move to protect Russia’s interests.