Putin Claims Russian Troops Maintain Upper Hand in Ukraine

Russian President Vladimir Putin claims that Russian troops are maintaining the initiative in Ukraine and are effectively carrying out their objectives. He praised the Russian military for repelling Ukrainian attacks during the counteroffensive and stated that Western attempts to defeat Russia have failed. Putin emphasized the need to improve military communications, intelligence, and counterartillery capabilities, as well as expand the country's nuclear forces. While open to talks, he warned that Russia will not give up what it considers its own interests.