Russian President Vladimir Putin dismissed allegations of planning to deploy nuclear weapons in space during a meeting with Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu at the Kremlin Palace. Putin emphasized Russia’s longstanding opposition to such measures and reiterated a commitment to existing agreements on the matter.

Addressing Ukrainian President Zelensky’s troop withdrawal order after the capture of Avdiyivka, Putin stated, “Their soldiers were already running away.” Putin urged the expansion of the victory in Avdiyivka, emphasizing the need for thorough preparation with personnel, weapons, equipment, and ammunition. Defense Minister Shoigu dismissed claims of their involvement in intimidating senators and congressmen, attributing such efforts to fund collection for Ukraine and strategically undermining Russia