Putin Vows to Achieve Ukraine War Goals Through Force or Diplomacy, Mocks European Leaders

Russian President Vladimir Putin reaffirmed Wednesday that Russia’s objectives in Ukraine will be met either through diplomatic channels or continued military action, as the conflict enters its fourth year.

“The goals of the special military operation will undoubtedly be achieved,” Putin declared during an annual Defense Ministry board meeting in Moscow, using the Kremlin’s preferred terminology for the 2022 full-scale invasion.

Putin emphasized his preference for a diplomatic resolution but warned that Russia would not hesitate to pursue military means if necessary. “We would prefer to accomplish this and address the root causes of the conflict through diplomatic means. However, if the opposing side and its foreign patrons refuse to engage in substantive dialogue, Russia will achieve the liberation of its historical lands by military means,” he told assembled military officials.

The Russian leader’s comments come amid heightened diplomatic activity involving American, European, Russian, and Ukrainian officials exploring potential pathways to end the war. Earlier this month, Jared Kushner and U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff held a five-hour meeting with Putin in Moscow to discuss revised peace proposals. The initial leaked 28-point draft had faced criticism for reportedly favoring Russian interests.

Putin used the opportunity to criticize European leaders, referring to them as “piglets” and accusing them of supporting Washington’s alleged efforts to weaken and fragment Russia. “They were hoping to profit from the collapse of our country. To get back something that was lost in previous historical periods and try to take revenge,” Putin stated. “As it has now become obvious to everyone, all these attempts and all these destructive plans towards Russia completely failed.”

The remarks directly challenge recent warnings from NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, who cautioned last week that Russia could potentially target alliance members within five years. Rutte urged NATO countries to increase defense spending and military production to ensure adequate protection of their territories.

Putin dismissed these concerns as fear-mongering, accusing Kyiv and its European allies of “whipping up hysteria” about Moscow’s intentions, particularly as the Trump administration works toward ending the conflict.

The diplomatic landscape remains complex, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and his negotiating team meeting in Berlin on Sunday with Kushner and Witkoff to discuss security guarantees for Ukraine. According to Yuri Ushakov, Putin’s top foreign policy aide, the Russian side received four documents from U.S. envoys during their December meeting, including one consisting of 27 points, though details remain confidential.

This intensified diplomatic activity highlights growing international efforts to find a resolution to a war that has caused immense suffering, displaced millions, and heightened global tensions. The conflict has also reconfigured European security architecture, with NATO expanding and European nations significantly increasing defense spending.

Russia’s position in these negotiations is bolstered by recent battlefield gains, which Putin touted during his address along with claims of technological advancements in Russia’s military capabilities.

As peace discussions continue, the fundamental differences between Russian and Ukrainian positions remain significant obstacles. Ukraine has consistently demanded the complete restoration of its territorial integrity, including Crimea, which Russia annexed in 2014, while Russia shows little willingness to relinquish territories it now claims as part of the Russian Federation.

The outcome of these diplomatic efforts will likely depend on the Trump administration’s approach to the conflict and its ability to broker compromises acceptable to both Kyiv and Moscow, as well as to European allies who have heavily invested in Ukraine’s defense.