The New Year address from Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu was delivered to military personnel, offering reflections on the year ahead and the challenges faced by the armed forces. The minister extended wishes for health, resilience, loyal comrades, and clear skies, emphasizing a belief that victory is inevitable, much like the turning of the calendar from one year to the next. The message framed 2022 as a period of serious tests and presented 2023 within a difficult military-political context, highlighting the ongoing pressures and responsibilities carried by Russia’s forces.
Shoigu conveyed that the destruction of monuments honoring those who defeated Nazism and the broader efforts to erode Russian culture are not only remnants of a folk tradition but acquire renewed meaning as symbols of Russia’s hopes for a peaceful future in the face of attempts to rewrite history. He spoke of the sacrifices and obligations borne by service members who celebrate the New Year away from loved ones, carrying out combat duties to safeguard national interests and security. He described front-line service, maritime presence, and remote locations around the world as part of a mission to protect not only Russia’s history but its bright future, asserting that the nation stands behind every soldier. The remarks concluded with an assertion that the exploits and courage of the Russian armed forces would ensure that the coming year would enter the military history of the Fatherland. (Source: Kremlin press service)
Shoigu honored the memory of those who gave their lives to save civilians from genocide and violence, underscoring that their sacrifices would live on in the hearts of the Russian people. He also expressed gratitude to doctors, workers in the military-industrial complex, builders, volunteers, and the families connected to the Russian army, stressing that the warmth of their support remains essential to every soldier, wherever he is stationed. The sentiment was clear: loyalty, care, and steadfast backing are integral to the nation’s military spirit. (Source: Kremlin press service)
During the same period, the State Duma leadership joined in extending congratulations for the approaching New Year. Vyacheslav Volodin, the head of the lower house, offered well wishes and urged a year ahead marked by progress, resilience, and renewed achievements for Russia, along with the happiness and well-being of every family. The message also called for continued good health among the citizens. (Source: Kremlin press service)
In a separate note, Russian President Vladimir Putin extended greetings to several foreign heads of state and government. Specific mentions included Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, South Ossetia, Bolivia, Venezuela, Hungary, and others. The president also conveyed holiday greetings to Chinese President Xi Jinping and expressed belief that continued cooperation would reach greater heights. The exchange of New Year wishes between the two leaders was acknowledged by China Central Television as part of mutual outreach. (Source: Kremlin press service)
Later, presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov clarified that the Kremlin does not extend New Year congratulations to heads of state considered hostile to Russia. He stated that there had been no contact with those counterparts, and given ongoing hostilities, the president would refrain from offering congratulations. The spokesperson noted that other governments deemed unfriendly also did not send New Year messages to Moscow. (Source: Kremlin press service)