The speech comes two weeks ahead of a presidential election in which Putin is expected to win another six-year term in a landslide.
Amid ongoing tensions, particularly concerning Russia's actions in Donbas and Novorossiya (regions in eastern Ukraine, which Russia claims to have annexed), Putin emphasized the importance of unity and sovereignty:
"Today, when our homeland is defending its sovereignty and security... the decisive role in this righteous struggle belongs to our citizens, our unity, devotion to our native country and responsibility for its fate…"
Regarding the war in Ukraine, Putin reiterated Russia's stance, stating, "We did not start this war in Donbas... We will do everything to end it, to eradicate Nazism." He highlighted the increased combat capabilities of the Russian armed forces and their progress in Ukraine.
Putin expressed readiness for dialogue with the United States on issues of strategic stability, while criticizing what he perceived as unsubstantiated accusations – regarding a potential Russian invasion of Europe – and attempts to draw Russia into negotiations on unfavorable terms.
Ukraine's top diplomat told Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi during talks in the city of Guangzhou on Wednesday that Kyiv was open to negotiating with Russia if Moscow was ready to do so in good faith, something Kyiv saw no evidence of currently.
Palestinian factions have signed a “national unity” agreement in Beijing aimed at maintaining Palestinian control over Gaza once Israel’s war on the enclave concludes.