INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
President Vladimir Putin praised the Russian army in his New Year's Eve address Sunday, calling for "unity" in a subdued speech that did not
explicitly mention the war in Ukraine.In stark contrast to last year's address, when the Russian leader was flanked by soldiers in uniform,
Putin stood in front of the traditional backdrop of the Kremlin and declared that 2024 would be the "year of the family.""We have repeatedly
proven that we can solve the most difficult problems and will never back down because there is no force that can separate us," Putin said in
the address, aired on state TV as regions in Russia's Far East greeted the New Year several hours ahead of Moscow.Putin made no mention of
the attack against the city of Belgorod on Saturday, in which officials said Ukrainian shelling killed at least 24 people and injured dozens
fight for truth and justice," Putin said, "you are our heroes
We are proud of you, we admire your courage.""We are united in our thoughts, in toil and in battle," he continued, adding that Russians
understood their country was passing through what he called a significant "historical stage.""We will ensure the confident development of
the Fatherland, the well-being of our citizens, and we will become even stronger," Putin said toward the end of his address.The televised
New Year's Eve speech, which continues a tradition started by Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev, is a key part of holiday celebrations in Russia
and is watched by millions.The address is aired just before midnight in each of Russia's 11 timezones and is usually a summary of events
from the past year, as well as wishes for the year ahead.
