Russian chief Vladimir Putin has stated that the so-called "particular army operation" ("SVO") – as Russian propaganda refers back to the conflict in opposition to Ukraine – ought to have been launched even earlier. He made this comment when requested whether or not he would change his thoughts if he may return to February 2022.

Supply: Putin in a speech on the annual end-of-year press convention

Quote: "I consider the choice we made in early 2022 ought to've been made sooner. That’s the primary level. Secondly, realizing what was coming, we must always've began making ready for these occasions, notably the 'SVO'. The Crimean occasions [Russia's occupation of Ukrainian Crimea] have been spontaneous, and the occasions of 2022 started with out preparation. Why did it occur? As a result of we couldn’t afford to stay passive and affected person, ready for the state of affairs to worsen for us."

Particulars: Putin additionally reiterated his accusations in opposition to Ukraine, claiming that Kyiv had refused to implement the Minsk agreements. He talked about "eight years of conflict" and the "destruction of all the pieces related to Russia" in Ukraine.

When a journalist requested concerning the private affect of the conflict on him, Putin lamented that he was joking and laughing much less.

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