Russian President Vladimir Putin accused Kyiv of delaying peace, signaling Russia might pursue its objectives by force.
Putin said that if Ukraine refused peaceful resolution, Moscow would accomplish all goals of its “special military operation” through military means.
Earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy condemned Russia’s overnight drone and missile strikes, insisting Kyiv seeks peace while Russia prolongs war.
The White House did not immediately comment on Putin’s statements amid rising tensions in Eastern Europe.
Putin inspected a Russian command post, receiving reports from Chief of General Staff Valery Gerasimov and regional commanders.
Russian forces reported capturing towns in Donetsk, including Myrnohrad, Rodynske, and Artemivka, along with Huliaipole and Stepnohirsk in Zaporizhzhia, Kremlin sources said.
Ukraine’s military, however, said its forces repelled Russian advances near Myrnohrad and Huliaipole, maintaining key defensive positions in contested regions.
The conflict, now stretching into its third year, shows no sign of abating, with both sides claiming battlefield successes amid mounting civilian strain.
Analysts warn that Moscow’s push for territorial gains could escalate regional instability, as Western nations continue to supply military aid to Kyiv.
As winter deepens, residents in frontline towns face disrupted services and growing humanitarian needs, highlighting the enduring human cost of the war.
