"Putin's Reelection Bid: Annual News Conference and Call-In Show"

Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed the nation in a news conference and call-in show, declaring that the war in Ukraine will continue until Russia achieves its goals of "de-Nazification" and "demilitarization" of the country. Putin ruled out another conscription wave, claiming success in recruiting contract soldiers, and expressed confidence in Russia's military advancement in Ukraine. He repeated false claims about Ukraine's leadership and accused the United States and Europe of facilitating the conflict. The combined media event served as a platform for Putin's reelection campaign and highlighted his authoritarian rule. Families of mobilized Russian soldiers expressed growing discontent and demanded the demobilization of their loved ones.