Russian Artists' New Year Greetings to Servicemen Posted by Defense Ministry

Overview

• The Russian Defense Ministry published video messages addressed to servicemen involved in the special military operation, with state media reporting the release on January 2, 2026.
• Named contributors include Nikolai Baskov, Ivan Okhlobystin, the group Kipelov, Alexander Marshal, Yuta, ST (Alexander Stepanov), Tatyana Kurtukova, Soprano Turetskogo, Anastasia Ivanova and Vlada Miravi.
• The messages thanked fighters for their service and wished them health, steadfast will, reliable friends and more chances to see their families, with some calling for strong motivation to keep moving forward.
• Several greetings voiced hopes that service members could return home soon, with phrasing in coverage noting a desire to come back to loved ones "with victory."
• ST praised troops for protecting the country and enabling everyday life, and Tatyana Kurtukova highlighted that public safety rests on their courage while wishing each soldier a safe return home.