Overview
- Speaking from the Kremlin in a roughly 3 minute 20 second address first aired in Kamchatka and Chukotka, Putin said Russia will rely on its own strength and move forward.
- He highlighted support for those fighting in the special military operation, said millions were thinking of them on New Year’s night, expressed belief in the fighters and in victory, and wished citizens happiness and inspiring love.
- Roscosmos cosmonauts Sergey Kud‑Sverchkov, Sergey Mikaev and Oleg Platonov sent a video greeting from the International Space Station, wishing health, peace and resolve; the ISS marks New Year by Moscow time with non‑flammable, compact decorations.
- Frontline units observed subdued festivities with small trees, dimmed lights for camouflage, special holiday rations and Ministry of Defense gift boxes delivered under strict safety measures.
- Other official messages included Dmitry Medvedev thanking those serving at the front and Maria Zakharova’s call to “enter the New Year on the red horse,” as broadcasters prepared the Spasskaya Tower chimes followed by the state anthem at midnight.