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Story summary
- On December 17, 2025, President Vladimir Putin said Russia's Ukraine objective could be pursued through diplomacy or military action.
- He said Moscow would expand a "security buffer zone" and would liberate lands if talks fail.
- Putin highlighted Russia's control over Crimea and parts of Donbas, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia.
- He criticized European leaders for fanning fears of a Russian threat, saying Russia seeks peace but is prepared for war.
