Russian President Vladimir Putin says Russia faces a difficult stage amid Ukraine war

Russian President Vladimir Putin told delegates at the United Russia party congress that Russia is undergoing a "difficult stage" in the ongoing war with Ukraine. He asserted that the West cannot defeat Russia on the battlefield, but said Moscow must adjust some plans because of pressure from Ukrainian forces.

Putin praised the unity and resilience of the Russian people and armed forces, described recent military actions as successful, and claimed that Russia’s security is not threatened. He also spoke of ambitions to raise the Russian economy to a new technological level despite recent fuel shortages, drone attacks on Moscow and infrastructure in occupied territories, and a series of strikes on Russian ports and refineries.