Putin's Strategy for Victory in the Ukraine War

Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that there will be no peace in Ukraine until Russia achieves its goals, which include denazification, demilitarization, and a neutral status for Ukraine. Putin's strong statements reflect Russia's nationalist narrative and strategic concerns about Ukraine's increasing closeness with NATO. The annual end-of-year news conference, which Putin skipped last year, suggests that the winds of war are currently blowing in Ukraine's favor as it faces challenges in manpower and finances. Additionally, Putin's announcement to run for a fifth term in the upcoming election indicates his potential to become the longest-serving Russian leader since Catherine the Great.