At his annual press conference in Moscow, President Vladimir Putin once again demonstrated the Kremlin’s commitment to viewing war as a means of achieving strategic objectives in Ukraine, claiming that Russia allegedly controls the strategic initiative and is advancing along the entire front. According to Putin, peace is possible only on Moscow’s terms, including recognition of the annexed territories and Ukraine’s refusal of Euro-Atlantic aspirations – positions that Kyiv and its allies firmly reject.

At the same time, the Russian military command officially confirmed the formation of a new brigade equipped with the medium-range missile system “Oreshnik”, underscoring the evolution of Russia’s armed forces toward enhanced strike capability. Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov emphasized that the brigade was created this year and expands the army’s combat potential, which could alter the balance of forces in certain sectors of the front.

Such a display of strength and confidence in the success of offensive operations may be interpreted as a signal not only to Kyiv but also to Western capitals: Moscow seeks to show that it is ready to increase pressure and expand its sphere of influence if diplomatic efforts do not lead to an outcome favorable to Russia. Claims of so-called “strategic initiative” on the battlefield and advances by Russian forces clash with the reality of a protracted conflict, in which real territorial changes occur slowly and the accounts of the opposing sides often diverge.

The strengthening of Russia’s missile forces through the deployment of the “Oreshnik” adds another layer to this strategic equation. This system, capable of carrying both conventional and potentially nuclear warheads and already being placed on combat duty, alters logistics and operational tactics – at least in theoretical terms. Its deployment suggests that Moscow is prepared to invest resources in a long-term confrontation rather than seek a compromise that would significantly reduce its level of military readiness.

It is important to understand that rhetoric about “strategic advantage” and future plans often reflects a desired narrative rather than the objective dynamics of the fighting. As more than three years of conflict have shown, positions along the front line change slowly, while the resistance of Ukraine’s armed forces and their partners remains resilient. In this context, statements about control and advances may carry more psychological and political weight than indicate any fundamental shift in the realities on the ground.

Most likely, the current agenda reflects Moscow’s attempt to strengthen its position both in negotiations and with its domestic audience – demonstrating strength, technological progress, and confidence in ultimate success, even as the conflict in practice remains prolonged and costly.

#RUSSIA

19.12.2025 10:19