Putin announces an offensive build-up

Putin declares intention to step up offensive and expand «buffer zone» in Ukraine

President of Russia Vladimir Putin stated that russia has the ability to to increase the pace of offensive actions, and also announced plans to expansion of the so-called «buffer zone» on the territory of Ukraine.

Putin's statements

According to Putin, by year-end on combat duty A missile system will be delivered «Oreshnik». He also stated that «the goals of the CSR will be achieved», and Russia allegedly intends to «liberate its historical lands».

Separately, Putin threatened the West, noting that in case of refusal to engage in dialogue, russia is ready to act militarily, He reiterated the need to «eliminate the root causes of the war».

Position of the Russian Ministry of Defence

The Russian Defence Minister added that key task for the next year For the Russian army there are maintaining and increasing the pace of the offensive, The Kremlin's policy of further escalation of hostilities was confirmed.

Context.

The statements were made against the backdrop of active hostilities in Ukraine and international discussions on possible peace initiatives. Kyiv has repeatedly emphasised that such rhetoric from Moscow indicates Lack of real readiness for peace and the intention to continue the war.