RT quoted the statement of Russian Defense Minister, General Sergei Shoigu, saying that preventing Ukraine's counterattack was the main goal of the Russian army this year and this goal was successfully achieved.
During an online meeting with military commanders on December 26, Mr. Shoigu said that Russian forces were gradually moving towards achieving the goals of the country's military operation in Ukraine.
Russian Defense Minister, General Sergei Shoigu at a meeting on December 26. (Photo: Sputnik)
“The main goal of 2023 was to prevent the much-hyped Ukrainian counteroffensive, regardless of the Western aid. This task has been successfully completed,” General Shoigu stressed.
In 2023, Ukraine is focusing on a "spring counteroffensive" aimed at recapturing areas previously controlled by Russia.
Ukraine had prepared carefully for this campaign, but the counter-offensive was said to have been slower than expected. The West also admitted that Kiev had not achieved many breakthrough achievements.
According to Minister Shoigu, the main factors that allowed the Russian army to repel the Ukrainian advance attempts were “the creation of an effective defense line system, high combat capabilities of all units, reliability and effectiveness of Russian military equipment.”
“And above all, the skillful and decisive actions of the soldiers of the Fatherland, who are selflessly acting to ensure the safety of our country and its people,” Shoigu added.
Speaking about recent events on the ground, Mr. Shoigu said that the Russian army “continuously occupies advantageous positions and expands the control zone in all directions” on the front line.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky admitted in late November that the counteroffensive was unsuccessful and that the country's army would switch from offense to defense.
According to Russian estimates, Ukraine has lost more than 125,000 troops and 16,000 pieces of heavy equipment during the nearly six-month counter-offensive campaign since June.
Russian President Vladimir Putin and Defense Minister Shoigu both said Russian forces had regained the initiative in the conflict. On December 25, the Defense Ministry confirmed the capture of Maryinka, a key Ukrainian stronghold in the Donetsk region.
Tra Khanh (Source: russian.rt.com)
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