ISTANBUL 

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday declared the coming year as the Year of the Defender of the Fatherland in the country, as he addressed the nation on New Year’s Eve.

“In your (Russian soldiers) honor, in honor of the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory and as a tribute to the memory of our ancestors who fought for the Motherland at all times, 2025 has been declared the Year of the Defender of the Fatherland in Russia,” Putin said in the address which was televised in the country’s eastern-most Kamchatka and Chukotka regions.

Noting that the coming year will complete the first quarter of the 21st century, Putin said that this period was filled with many large-scale events, including those of historic significance.

Putin said that Russia set big goals for itself and achieved them during this period, though they still have “a lot to decide.”

“We still have a lot to decide, but we can rightfully be proud of what has already been done. This is our common heritage, a reliable foundation for further development. Our country - independent, free and strong - was able to respond to the most difficult challenges,” he said.

The Russian president further said that they are now thinking about the future, indicating they are confident that everything will be fine and they will only "move forward."

Putin went on to wish well-being and prosperity to Russia and its people, adding: “When we are together, everything will come true!”