In his New Year’s speech, Russian President Vladimir Putin delivered a stark message aimed at both Western nations and his military forces: Russia remains resolute in its efforts in Ukraine.

As 2026 dawned across Russia’s eastern territories, Putin committed to achieving victory in the conflict now nearing its fourth year. He lauded Russian troops and depicted the war as a crucial battle for the country’s survival, even as the United States intensifies its diplomatic initiatives to halt the violence.

“We have faith in you and our victory,” Putin declared in a nationwide broadcast on Wednesday, as shared by the Kremlin. He specifically addressed the military, extending congratulations to “all our soldiers and commanders,” and promised unwavering support for what Russia terms its “special military operation.”

Russian President Vladimir Putin delivers his New Year’s address from the Kremlin, vowing victory in the war in Ukraine. (East2West)

Putin portrayed the conflict as a defense of Russia’s homeland, emphasizing themes of “truth and justice,” and underscored a commitment to continue despite escalating casualties and global pressure.

In a separate statement, former President and current deputy of Russia’s security council, Dmitry Medvedev, expressed confidence in a forthcoming victory in Ukraine. He echoed Putin’s sentiments, referring to “our great and invincible Russia.”

The defiant tone comes as the war approaches grim milestones. On Jan. 12, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine will surpass the 1,418 days the Soviet Union fought Nazi Germany in Europe during World War II. On Feb. 24, the conflict will enter its fourth year. Western estimates place the number of killed and wounded at more than 1 million — a figure the Kremlin disputes.

The mother of a Russian soldier who was killed in a military action in Ukraine, kneels near a planted tree in memory of her son at the Alley of Heroes in Sevastopol, Crimea, Saturday, Feb. 25, 2023. (AP Photo)

Putin’s rhetoric stood in sharp contrast to renewed diplomatic activity led by Washington.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with U.S. President Donald Trump at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida on Sunday, as the White House explores possible paths to end Europe’s largest land war since World War II.

U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky shake hands at a news conference following a meeting at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago club on December 28, 2025 in Palm Beach, Florida. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

After the meeting, Trump said Ukraine and Russia were “closer than ever” to peace, while acknowledging that major obstacles — particularly territorial disputes — remain unresolved. Reuters separately reported that Trump and Zelenskyy discussed potential U.S. troop involvement as part of broader security guarantees, though no decisions were announced.