Russian President Vladimir Putin’s annual “Direct Line” event, held on December 19 in Moscow, offered a comprehensive insight into his perspectives on both domestic and global challenges. Known for its marathon format, the Q&A session covered a range of issues, including the Ukraine conflict, demographic concerns, cultural values, and shifting geopolitical alliances. Below are the main takeaways from the event and their broader implications.

A significant focus of the session was the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Putin suggested that initiating Russia’s military operation earlier than February 2022 might have yielded better outcomes. “If it were possible to look at the situation in 2022, knowing what is happening now, I would think that such a decision should have been made earlier,” he said.

Putin justified the timing of the operation by arguing that waiting any longer would have weakened Russia’s strategic position. He reiterated that the military campaign was necessary to protect Russia’s national interests, framing it as a defensive measure rather than an act of aggression.

By suggesting earlier action could have been beneficial, Putin underscored his belief in the inevitability of the operation. This statement not only seeks to justify the war to the domestic audience but also highlights his view that Russia must act decisively to protect its sovereignty and strategic interests, regardless of international backlash.

While expressing a willingness to engage in dialogue, Putin cast doubt on the legitimacy of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, describing him as “illegitimate” due to the postponement of elections in Ukraine. “We are ready for dialogue, but if not with the head of the regime, then with whom?” Putin asked, suggesting that free and fair elections in Ukraine could open pathways for constructive negotiations.

Putin criticized Western nations for exacerbating the conflict by supplying arms to Ukraine, arguing that such actions only prolong........

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