On 19 December, Russian President Vladimir Putin denied a BBC journalist’s inquiry about additional “special operations” during Moscow’s televised question‑time.
Putin Denies Further Special Operations
During the nightly question‑time session, BBC journalist Steve Rosenberg asked if Russia would launch new “special operations.” Putin replied that no further operations would occur if the West respected Russia’s interests and promised they would not deceive Russia as they did with NATO’s eastern expansion.
Putin Declares No War Plans, Only Readiness
The president reiterated that Russia has no intention of attacking European states, calling such claims “nonsense.” He reaffirmed the Kremlin’s narrative that the West is responsible for the conflict, noting that the ball sits with western opponents, especially European sponsors.
Putin said Moscow is prepared to end the war peacefully, but would not withdraw troops, would keep control over occupied Ukrainian territories, and insisted Kyiv abandon NATO ambitions. He emphasized that even before the Ukraine conflict, Russia had not planned any wars.
Zelensky Visits Poland Amid Missile Threat Concerns
During his visit to Poland, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned that Russia’s “Oresznik” missile complexes could be positioned on Belarusian territory. He called for sanctions against firms supplying Russia with missile components, but noted that action had not yet materialized.
Zelensky Confirms Knowledge of Missile Deployment
In a joint press conference with Polish President Karol Nawrocki, Zelensky said Ukraine is aware of the planned deployment of the Oresznik complex and is passing this information to partners. He added that the missiles could not be destroyed by drones but that Ukraine had other counter‑measures.
Nawrocki Sees Zelensky Visit as Good for Europe, Bad for Moscow
Polish media quoted President Nawrocki saying Zelensky’s Warsaw visit signals political support, benefiting Europe and undermining Moscow. The visit also saw Poland affirm EU credit support for Ukraine and decisions on transferring MiG‑29 aircraft.
