Strategic initiative fully in Russia’s hands in special operation zone, says Putin

Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated that Russia maintains the strategic initiative in the special operations zone. He made the remark during a meeting with the leadership of the Russian Ministry of Defense and the General Staff, 1tv.ru reports.

“Ukrainian armed forces are retreating along the entire contact line,” the Russian president said.

He added that the Russian military has already brought 5,000 square kilometers and 219 settlements under its control this year.

Russia’s “special military operation” in Ukraine began on Feb. 24, 2022. Putin said the operation was prompted by NATO’s uncontrolled eastward expansion and Ukraine’s prospects of joining the alliance, which he claims violates prior Russia-West agreements.