Putin’s New Year Message Calls Troops ‘Heroes’ as Russia Steps Up Strikes in Ukraine

Russian President Vladimir Putin used his New Year address to praise Russian troops fighting in Ukraine. He spoke from the Kremlin as Russia continued its winter attacks. The message aired first in Russia’s far east, where midnight had already passed. The speech marked the end of a year of slow Russian advances and heavy strikes on Ukrainian cities.According to AP News, Putin said he believed in his forces and in victory. He framed the conflict as a struggle for Russia’s security and future.

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Putin wore a black coat and stood before the Kremlin walls. He said unity in Russia would protect the country. He told soldiers they were heroes and said millions at home supported them. He said their service kept the “Fatherland” safe.Russia also released a video claiming to show a downed Ukrainian drone near a presidential residence. According to Reuters, Ukraine denied the claim and called it a false story meant to disrupt peace talks. The message appeared as fighting on the ground continued with no sign of slowing.Russia carried out more drone attacks in southern Ukraine. Local officials in Odesa said drones hit homes and power sites. Four apartment blocks were damaged, and six people were hurt, including young children. The power company DTEK said two of its energy sites were hit and ten substations had been damaged this month.Russia has increased strikes on Ukrainian cities as winter sets in. These attacks target homes and energy networks. They aim to cut heat and water during freezing weather. According to the United Nations, more than 2,300 Ukrainian civilians were killed between January and November 2025. The numbers are higher than the past two years.

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The conflict is close to entering its fourth year. The latest strikes show the war remains intense. People in Ukraine face more power cuts and growing danger. Russian troops continue slow advances, while Ukraine struggles to protect its cities from drones.The civilian impact is rising as winter worsens conditions. Damage to power grids creates new risks for millions. The latest attack on Odesa highlights how the conflict is still focused on towns and cities far from the front line. The war has no clear path toward peace, and both sides appear prepared for a long fight.

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FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What was the main point of Putin’s New Year address?

Putin praised Russian troops fighting in Ukraine and called them heroes. He said he believed in their victory and highlighted national unity. The speech aimed to rally support at home.

Q2: What happened in Odesa during the latest attack?

Russian drones struck apartment buildings and power sites. Six people were hurt, including children. Local officials said several energy substations were damaged.

Q3: How many civilians have been affected by the war this year?

The UN reported more than 2,300 civilians killed in Ukraine between January and November 2025. More than 11,000 were injured. The toll is higher than the previous two years.

Q4: Why has Russia targeted energy infrastructure?

Russia aims to cut heat and water during the winter. These strikes increase pressure on Ukraine and strain civilian life. It continues a pattern seen in earlier winter attacks.

Q5: Did Ukraine attack a Russian presidential residence?

Russia claimed to down a Ukrainian drone near a residence. Ukraine denied this claim. Kyiv said the story was false and aimed to harm peace efforts.

Trusted Sources: AP News, Reuters, BBC