Moscow, June 29, 2026 – The Europe Today: Russian President Vladimir Putin has reaffirmed that Russia will continue pursuing its long-term strategic objectives despite what he described as unprecedented pressure from Western countries, while pledging to safeguard the nation’s security, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.
Speaking at the United Russia party congress on Sunday, Putin said the country was passing through a decisive period in its history and remained determined to defend its national interests and way of life.
“Russia is standing firm on its feet and is ready to fight for our future, way of living, sovereign ideology, foundations, and living principles,” he said.
The Russian president asserted that Western countries had failed to achieve their objectives of inflicting a strategic defeat on Russia or destabilizing the country’s political system.
“They have been unable to inflict a strategic defeat on us or win a victory on the battlefield. Nor are they succeeding in destabilizing the political situation,” Putin stated.
Commenting on the conflict in Ukraine, Putin accused the Ukrainian government of intensifying attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure, alleging that such actions stemmed from setbacks on the battlefield.
“The regime is retreating along the entire line of engagement, and therefore it has resorted to openly terrorist activities,” he said.
Putin also criticized Western nations for imposing additional sanctions on Moscow while, according to him, overlooking Ukrainian attacks.
Addressing domestic priorities, the Russian leader pledged to ensure the country’s long-term security and the inviolability of its borders, while emphasizing that strategically important national development programmes would continue despite ongoing challenges.
“We will certainly ensure the security of our country and our citizens as well as the inviolability of our borders in a longer historical perspective,” he said.
Putin further outlined plans to modernize the Russian economy through technological innovation, infrastructure development, support for domestic industries, and the creation of high-paying jobs.
Looking ahead to Russia’s parliamentary elections scheduled for September, Putin said the vote would be conducted on time and in accordance with the law. He added that the ruling United Russia party would nominate more young candidates and described participants in Russia’s military campaign in Ukraine as the country’s “true elite,” calling for greater opportunities for them to contribute to government, politics, and the economy following their military service.
