ISTANBUL

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Wednesday that his country will continue efforts to achieve its goals, as he addressed Russians on New Year’s Eve.

“We will continue to work and create, achieve our goals, and move forward for the sake of our children and grandchildren, for the sake of our great Russia!” Putin said in the speech, which was broadcast in the country’s far eastern regions of Kamchatka and Chukotka.

He said the unity shown by the Russian people has ensured not only the country’s sovereignty and security, but also its development and future.

Putin added that as the country marks New Year, authorities are working to bring “joy and warmth to those in need of compassion and care,” while also supporting Russian forces “in word and deed.”

“You (Russian soldiers) have taken on the responsibility of fighting for your native land, for truth and justice. Millions of people across Russia … are with you on this New Year's Eve … We believe in you and our victory!” he said.

The address came as diplomatic efforts, led by the US, continue in search of a settlement to the nearly four-year-long Russia-Ukraine war.