Russia’s victory in Ukraine ‘inevitable’: Defense minister

Russia’s Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu says his country’s victory in Ukraine “is inevitable,” though he said that the situation on the frontlines remained “difficult.”

According to Press TV, in a new year message to military servicemen on Saturday, Shoigu said Russia’s “victory, like the New Year, is inevitable.” “In the coming year, I want to wish everyone good health, fortitude, reliable and devoted comrades.”

Shoigu said in the outgoing year “we all faced serious trials.” The new year comes during a “difficult military-political situation,” he said.

Russia launched its “special operation” in Ukraine on February 24. Moscow said the operation was aimed at defending the pro-Russia population in the eastern Ukrainian regions of Luhansk and Donetsk against persecution by the government in Kiev. President Vladimir Putin said at the time that the operation was meant to "de-Nazify" Ukraine.

Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov expresses certainty that his country will eventually achieve its goals in neighboring Ukraine.

"I am convinced that thanks to our perseverance, patience, and determination, we will defend the noble goals that are vital for our people and our country," the top diplomat said in an interview broadcast on national television on Wednesday.

Russia's former President Dmitry Medvedov warned in an article recently that Moscow would pursue the war until the "disgusting, almost fascist regime" in Kiev is removed and the country is totally demilitarized.

ME