Putin Says Ukraine Fight Is Taking Longer Than Expected

Putin Says Ukraine Fight Is Taking Longer Than Expected
Russian President Vladimir Putin gestures while speaking during the annual meeting of the Presidential Council for Civil Society and Human Rights via videoconference in Moscow on Dec. 7, 2022. Mikhail Metzel, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP
The Associated Press
Updated:

KYIV, Ukraine—Russian President Vladimir Putin acknowledged Wednesday that his “special military operation” in Ukraine is taking longer than expected but said it has succeeded in seizing new territory and added that his country’s nuclear weapons are deterring escalation of the conflict.

“Of course, it could be a lengthy process,” Putin said of the more than 9-month-old war that began with Russia’s invasion Feb. 24. Despite its length, he showed no signs of letting up, vowing to “consistently fight for our interests“ and to “protect ourselves using all means available.” He reiterated his claim that he had no choice but to send in troops, saying that for years, the West responded to Russia’s security demands with “only spit in the face.”