Putin's Pivotal Decision: Peace or Prolonged Conflict in Ukraine?

Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to deliver a crucial message regarding the Ukraine conflict, signaling either an appetite for peace or continued warfare during an end-of-year news conference. As tensions continue with the West since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the outcome may reshape international relations.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is poised to send a significant signal to the United States and European powers concerning the ongoing conflict in Ukraine during a major end-of-year news conference. This event follows Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, marking the most significant East-West confrontation since the Cold War.

U.S. President Donald Trump has voiced a desire to be remembered as a peacemaker, lamenting that ending the Ukraine conflict remains an elusive goal of his presidency. Putin's annual news conference, beginning at 0900 GMT on Friday, will cover diverse topics ranging from domestic challenges to international military operations.

As European Union leaders opt to fund Ukraine's defense with borrowed funds rather than seizing Russian assets, the global implications of the conflict continue to unfold. Putin argues the war is a critical juncture in Moscow's dealings with the West, and the outcome may redefine global political dynamics.

(With inputs from agencies.)