Putin admitted that the ‘special operation’ in Ukraine was delayed
But he considers it an advantage to gain control over the Sea of Azov
Russian President Vladimir Putin acknowledged on Wednesday that his ‘special military operation’ in Ukraine was taking longer than expected, but said Russia had succeeded in seizing new territory.
‘Of course, it can be a long process,’ Putin said of the war, which has been going on for more than 9 months.
Despite this, he showed no sign of easing military action, promising to ‘consistently fight for our interests’ and ‘defend ourselves by all available means.’
Putin repeated his claim that he had no choice but to send in troops, saying that for years the West had responded to Russia’s security demands with ‘spit in the face’.
Speaking at a televised meeting in Russia with members of the Human Rights Council, Putin called the occupation of Ukrainian territories ‘a significant result for Russia,’ noting that the Sea of Azov ‘has become Russia’s internal sea.’
In one of his frequent historical references to the Russian tsar, whom he admires, Putin added that ‘Peter the First fought for access’ to this sea.
In a televised speech, Putin glossed over Russia’s failures on the battlefield and loss of control over captured regions, but acknowledged problems with supplies, treatment of wounded soldiers and desertions from the army.
At the meeting, Putin discussed the mobilization of 300,000 reservists who were called up in September for the war against Ukraine on his orders.
Putin said that so far only about 150,000 conscripts have been sent to combat zones, while the rest are still undergoing training.
Responding to suggestions that the Kremlin may be preparing another mobilization, Putin said: ‘There is no need for this either for the Ministry of Defense or for the country.’
We will remind, at the same meeting, Putin stated that the probability of a nuclear war is increasing. Russia, according to him, will not be the first to strike, but it will not be the second either.
