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Russian President Vladimir Putin said Russia would achieve its objectives in the war in Ukraine and “do everything for victory,” while acknowledging battlefield losses, inflation risks and the pressures facing the country.
Putin made the remarks at the Kremlin Palace while addressing lawmakers at the closing of the State Duma, the lower house of Russia’s parliament, ahead of elections scheduled for September.
He described the current period as difficult and decisive for Russia, saying the country was going through “a period of great struggle.”
“We are pursuing the goals set for the country carefully, persistently and steadily, and we will achieve them,” Putin said.
Putin said that despite developments over the past four years, Russia ranked as the world’s fourth-largest economy after China, the U.S. and India, and held first place in Europe.
He also said Russia was ahead of the European Union in terms of economic growth rates.
“But, of course, we would like to see more,” Putin said. “However, there are also risks — rising inflation and the related consequences. But today’s policies also have important advantages.”
He said those advantages were primarily reflected in the stability of Russia’s economic and financial systems.
Putin also emphasized the importance of industrial development, the defense industry and social policies in maintaining that stability.
Putin said moving “more boldly” on the battlefield carried its own risks, including losses among Russian forces.
He said Russia would continue acting carefully, persistently and consistently while pursuing its objectives.
Putin described those participating in what Moscow calls its “special military operation” as fighting heroically for Russia and said they had the support of the public and wider society.
“We will achieve our goals, and together we will do everything for victory and for Russia,” he said.
Putin claimed Russia had faced pressure both before and after 2014 and accused the West of dramatically increasing anti-Russian policies since 2022.
“Since 2022, the West has shifted the machine of Russophobia into high gear and broken world records,” he said.
Putin argued that what he called “so-called sanctions” had failed and said those who imposed and initiated them had harmed people in Europe and other countries.
He said the outlines of a new world order were emerging amid struggle and intense competition.
Putin said the fate of the Russian people was at stake, describing that assessment as reality rather than an exaggeration.
He added that Russians had historically responded to aggressive external pressure and major challenges with unity.
“This has always been the case, and this is exactly what is happening today,” Putin said.
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