**Putin Says Russia Should Have Invaded Ukraine Sooner**
Russian President Vladimir Putin said in a press conference that Russia should have launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine earlier and been better prepared for the war.
Speaking at an event called “Results of the Year with Vladimir Putin”, Putin said there should have been “systemic preparation” for the 2022 invasion, which he calls a “special military operation”. He also said Russian forces are making progress on the frontlines every day and described his troops as “heroes”.
**War in Ukraine**
Putin talked extensively about the war in Ukraine, saying he is open to compromises to end the conflict. However, it’s unclear what such compromises could entail.
He also claimed that Russia has improved the standard of roads in the Ukrainian region of Luhansk since it was seized by Russia-backed forces in 2014. When asked if the West had “received the message” on Russia’s change to its nuclear doctrine, Putin said they would have to ask them.
**Russia’s Nuclear Doctrine**
Putin emphasized the capabilities of Russia’s new intermediate-range ballistic missile, Oreshnik, which was used in a strike on Ukraine in November. He suggested that Russia should fire the Oreshnik towards Ukraine and see if Ukrainian air defense systems could bring it down.
**Relationships with Other Countries**
Putin said Russia’s relations with China have reached an all-time high and the two countries are coordinating actions on the world stage. He also met with US President-elect Donald Trump four years ago, but they haven’t spoken since then.
When asked about the fall of the Assad regime in Syria, Putin insisted it was not a defeat for the Kremlin, which supported President Bashar al-Assad militarily for years. However, he admitted that the situation is “complicated”.
**Domestic Issues**
Throughout the address, Putin also answered questions on domestic issues such as telephone scammers and young people’s struggles with getting a mortgage.
Read More @ www.bbc.com