Putin to Troops: "We Believe in You and Our Victory" in Ukraine New Year Message

• Russian President Vladimir Putin sent a New Year's Eve message to troops in Ukraine, expressing confidence in Moscow's eventual victory.
• Airing first in Kamchatka, Putin called on citizens to support Russian forces, stating, "We believe in you and our victory."
• He emphasized unity and patriotism, asserting that "The strength of our unity determines the sovereignty and security of the Fatherland."
• The televised address, a Soviet-era tradition, was broadcast across all 11 Russian time zones.
• This year's message was more subdued than his 2022 address, following a pre-war format, and coincided with his 26th presidential anniversary.

Why It Matters: Putin's New Year message to troops in Ukraine focused on unity, patriotism, and assured victory.