Vladimir Putin has openly backed former US President Donald Trump over his $10 billion legal battle with the BBC.
The lawsuit stems from a Panorama documentary that edited Trump’s January 6 speech, making it appear as though he directly incited the Capitol riot.
During his expansive year-end press conference, Putin was asked about the case and responded simply: “Trump is right.”
Trump’s legal team has filed claims in a federal court in Miami, seeking $5 billion in damages for defamation and another $5 billion for alleged violations of trade practices, bringing the total to $10 billion.
The BBC has apologized for the editing but plans to defend itself vigorously in court.
Putin Praises Trump’s Efforts to End Ukraine Conflict
Beyond the lawsuit, Putin praised Trump’s attempts to resolve the Ukraine war, calling the former US President “sincere” and “serious” in his efforts.
The Russian leader highlighted Trump’s diplomatic push as noteworthy, even as ongoing negotiations between Washington, Moscow, and Kyiv have faced major roadblocks.
Putin emphasized that Russia remains ready for peace talks with Ukraine but questioned Kyiv’s preparedness.
He claimed Russian troops were close to achieving gains across the battlefield, reinforcing Moscow’s narrative of progress in the conflict.
Flashy Set Sends a Political Message
The backdrop for Putin’s press conference was more than decorative—it sent a clear message.
A massive map of Russia prominently displayed Crimea along with the four Ukrainian regions annexed in 2022: Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson.
While Russian forces have not fully conquered these areas, Putin has claimed them as Russian territory.
Rogue Messages Lighten the Atmosphere
Not all moments were serious. During the marathon conference, humorous and sarcastic messages briefly appeared on screens intended for questions from the public.
One read: “Vladimir Vladimirovich, it’s Friday already, can we break out the booze?”
Another criticized Russia’s economic state, asking why citizens were worse off than those in Papua New Guinea. Kremlin officials did not comment, and Putin ignored the interruptions.
Macron Urges European Re-Engagement
French President Emmanuel Macron weighed in on the Ukraine peace process, warning that Europe would need to engage directly with Putin if US-led talks fail.
He stressed that Europe must either achieve a robust peace with proper security guarantees or step back into dialogue with Russia transparently, rather than be sidelined by US-led negotiations.
Russia’s Position on Security and NATO
Putin also addressed Russia’s security concerns, asserting that Moscow has no intention of attacking Europe but would halt the Ukraine war immediately if its security was guaranteed.
He criticized NATO for breaking promises about non-expansion, claiming past and current alliance moves in Ukraine contributed to Moscow’s concerns.
Military Updates and Recruitment Boost
Highlighting Russia’s military developments, Putin claimed over 400,000 people joined the Russian Army last year.
He mentioned the creation of a drone warfare branch, with students taking academic leave to serve as operators.
Putin emphasized that Russian troops are advancing across the battlefield and that Moscow has regained the strategic initiative.
Standoff Over Frozen Russian Assets
Putin also commented on the EU’s failed plan to use frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine.
He argued that any money seized would have to be repaid and warned European leaders about the “serious consequences” of attempting to take Russian funds, framing it as a blow not only to Russia but also to trust in the eurozone.
Putin on the Ball for Ukraine Talks
Regarding peace negotiations, Putin insisted the “ball” is in Kyiv’s and the West’s court, rejecting claims that Russia was deliberately stalling talks.
He stated that Moscow had even accepted some compromises suggested in a US-proposed deal.
What’s Next?
Putin’s end-of-year press conference combined political statements, military updates, and moments of lighthearted chaos.
With ongoing tensions in Ukraine, legal battles involving Trump, and strained relations with Europe, the international community will be watching closely to see how these developments unfold in the months ahead.
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