Putin Hails War a “Righteous Battle” While Admitting Water and Health Crises in Occupied Ukraine

In a video message marking the third anniversary of Russia’s annexation of four Ukrainian regions, Russian leader Vladimir Putin declared that Russia is fighting a “righteous battle” to uphold the will of the people in Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson.

He emphasized that both the Russian military and the nation are “united in defending their historical unity and love for the homeland.” The video was posted on the Kremlin’s website on September 30.

Putin acknowledged the difficulties faced by residents in the occupied areas, particularly issues like water supply and healthcare.

“There are many truly pressing, urgent problems. Among them are issues of paramount importance, vital to every person, such as reliable water supply, access to quality healthcare, and so on,” he said.

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Russia’s annexation followed disputed “referendums” in the regions in September 2022, though Russian forces never fully controlled them. Currently, Russia occupies about 88% of Donbas and 73% of Zaporizhzhia and Kherson, amounting to roughly 20% of Ukrainian territory.

Previously, Russia had demanded Ukraine withdraw its forces from the remaining parts of Donbas, with a freeze on the frontlines in Zaporizhzhia and Kherson in exchange. Additionally, Putin proposed returning several Ukrainian territories.

However, President Zelenskyy responded that territorial issues would only be discussed in direct talks with Putin, a meeting the Russian leader has shown little interest in pursuing.

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