On Wednesday, Dec. 17, Russian President Vladimir Putin warned that Moscow will use military force to liberate its historical lands if Ukraine and the West refuse substantive talks.
Putin warns of military action if talks stall
During a meeting of the Russian Defence Council on Dec. 17, Putin said Moscow would prefer a diplomatic resolution to the conflict in Ukraine, but if Ukraine and the West rejected substantive negotiations, Russia would achieve the release of its historical territories through military means.
He added that Russia is considering intensifying its offensive, citing the positions captured, the trenches built in recent months, and the tactical and operational experience gained in battles that broke through deep enemy defences, enabling an acceleration of the offensive in strategically important areas.
Russia prioritises nuclear deterrence and new missile systems
Putin announced that strengthening Russia’s strategic nuclear forces is a priority as they serve as a key deterrence element. Plans are underway to introduce operational readiness of the Oriznik missile by year‑end.
He noted that army capabilities are continually expanding and that the defence industry is producing more. He stressed that the objective is not to attack any European state, calling the narrative of an inevitable clash in Europe a lie.
Ukraine’s territories remain flashpoint in diplomatic talks
Russian Vice‑Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov said on ABC News that the parties in the conflict are “on the brink” of a diplomatic solution that would end the war, but that disputed Ukrainian territories remain.
He listed Crimea, annexed in 2014, and the partially occupied regions of Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson. “We cannot come to a compromise on this issue,” he said. “Zelensky has repeatedly rejected territorial concessions to Russia, and Moscow also rejects guarantees such as sending NATO troops to Ukraine after the war.”