Peace in Ukraine hinges on denazification and demilitarization, says Putin in annual press review

Putin took part in this annual press conference that included a summary of events that occurred in the last few months. He responded to questions from journalists and Russian citizens alike.

As the Russian president, Putin handled several topics, even those that might have accidentally surfaced on state-controlled television. He was asked about various issues, ranging from the price of eggs to the different representations of reality by Russian media. However, the "special operation" in Ukraine was one of the key subjects.

The Russian leader expressed his vision for potential peace in Ukraine, clarifying the country's objectives. - "Our goals remain unchanged: denazification, demilitarization, and returning Ukraine to a neutral status. We can expect peace when we have accomplished these objectives," Putin stated.

Putin also stated that Ukraine's refusal to negotiate has led Russia to consider alternate methods, including military intervention. Interestingly, he also reiterated the idea that Russians and Ukrainians form a single nation, a talking point often reiterated since the onset of the conflict. He expressed his anticipation for the Western powers' fatigue and the depletion of the "brotherly nation's" military capacity.

As is customary, Putin blamed Western powers such as NATO for the conflict. He discussed the disconnection with the European Union and assigned the blame to the European Community. "The reconciliation of our relationship with the EU lies not entirely in our hands. It was not us who ruined this relationship, they did," Putin emphasized.

Anton Heraszczenko, an advisor to the Ukrainian Minister of Internal Affairs, succinctly summarized Putin's argument. - "Translated, this amounts to him wanting Ukraine wiped off the world map," Heraszczenko tweeted.

Regrettably, the upcoming months look grim for Ukraine. Congress in the United States has yet to agree on $61 billion in aid for Ukraine. Even President Volodymyr Zelensky's visit to the US did little to change this.

Fissures within the European Union are becoming apparent. Hungary's Prime Minister, Victor Orban, continues to oppose discussions concerning Ukraine's potential membership.

The situation at the front lines remains complex. The Russians have recently taken the upper hand. Although neither party has managed to secure a clear victory, Ukraine continues its resistance, surviving mostly on Western support. If these additional resources cease to come in, the ravaged nation might cede part of its territory to Russia. This would nearly be an ideal outcome for Putin.