Moscow: In his New Year's Eve address, Russian President Vladimir Putin praised his army and demanded "unity". He however did not mention Ukraine, Agence France-Presse reported.
Last year, Putin addressed the country on the occasion flanked by soldiers in Uniform. However, this time, he described the year 2024 as the "year of the family". He was in front of the traditional backdrop of the Kremlin.
He said that they have repeatedly proved that they are able to solve the most difficult tasks and would never back down. There is no force to separate them, he said in his address, which was aired on state TV.
He said that all those who are on duty at the front line for "truth and justice" are heroes. Their heart is with those on duty; they are proud of them, and they admire their courage, Putin addressed.
New Year's Eve speech being aired on TV is a tradition started by Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev. This is watched by millions at their homes, AFP reports.
It aired before midnight in Russia's 11 time zones. The speech usually contains a summary of events of the past year and well wishes for the new year.
On Saturday, Russia reported a Ukrainian strike that claimed the lives of at least 14 individuals and left 108 injured in Belgorod, situated approximately 30 kilometres from the Ukraine border.
This strike follows a series of Russian attacks that caused extensive casualties in Ukraine.
Belgorod, a city frequently targeted by what Russia claims to be indiscriminate shelling from Kyiv's forces, witnessed the aftermath of the recent strike. Unverified footage displayed extensive damage, including debris scattered across streets, burnt-out vehicles, and billowing smoke in the city centre.