Russian President Vladimir Putin has delivered his annual New Year address, urging unity and support for the country's armed forces, while also touching on economic matters and promoting the importance of family. In his speech, President Putin hailed the soldiers as "heroes" and praised their commitment to the "fight for truth". However, he did not explicitly mention the ongoing war in Ukraine, which has resulted in numerous casualties.

Last year, President Putin gave his speech alongside soldiers, emphasizing the need for sacrifice and resilience. This year, he returned to the traditional backdrop of the Kremlin, delivering his address alone. Despite not directly addressing the Ukrainian conflict, the Russian leader expressed pride in the soldiers' courage and commended their dedication to the nation.

President Putin also turned attention to economic concerns, a pressing issue for many Russians. Additionally, he declared 2024 as the "year of the family," underlining the importance of unity and solidarity within Russian households.

Although the war in Ukraine was not explicitly acknowledged, recent events have highlighted its toll on the Russian side. Over the weekend, more than 20 people were killed in the border city of Belgorod, adding to the already significant number of Russian casualties. However, President Putin's speech steered clear of specific details regarding these incidents.

The New Year address, a long-standing tradition that originated with Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev, holds significant importance in Russia, attracting a massive viewership each year. President Putin's speech serves as a platform to reinforce his leadership and rally support from the population.

Looking ahead, President Putin recently announced his decision to run for a fifth term in office in the upcoming March 2024 elections. With little opposition and extensive control over the Russian media, it is widely believed that his victory is inevitable.

As the Russian government mourns the loss of life in Belgorod and remains engaged in the war effort, it is clear that President Putin seeks to consolidate support for the armed forces and emphasize national unity during these challenging times. The New Year address serves as a reflection of the country's aspirations for the future and its commitment to upholding traditional values.

According to officials, the casualties in Belgorod include children. Ukraine has blamed Russian air defenses for the civilian deaths. The Russian emergency ministry has confirmed that a total of 14 people, including two children, lost their lives in the tragic incident.