China News Agency, Moscow, December 31 (Reporter Tian Bing) Russian President Vladimir Putin said in his New Year's speech on December 31 local time that 2022 will become the dividing line that will lay the foundation for Russia's future and true independence.

　　According to the Kremlin website, Putin inspected the southern Russian military region on the same day, during which he awarded battle flags to newly formed troops and awarded medals to officers and soldiers in special military operations.

For the first time, Putin broke the tradition of the Russian head of state delivering a New Year's speech against the backdrop of the Kremlin, and delivered a New Year's speech at the Southern Military District Command to extend holiday wishes to the Russian people.

　　Putin said in his speech that 2022 is a year full of difficulties but must be chosen, and it is a year of the most important actions to defend Russia's sovereignty and integrity and maintain social unity.

The year was full of real turning points and fate-changing events, which became the dividing line that laid the foundation for Russia's future, true independence.

Today Russia is also fighting for this goal.

　　Putin pointed out that the coming year has brought huge and fundamental changes to Russia and the whole world, and it is full of turmoil, anxiety and restlessness.

But as in all difficult times in Russian history, the Russian people have shown courage and dignity, supporting the country in word and deed.

Russia's sovereignty, independence and security depend on itself, its own strength and will.

　　Putin also pointed out that the West, under the guise of peace and claiming to be committed to resolving the Donbass crisis, is trying to use Ukraine and its people to weaken and divide Russia.

"We have not allowed and never will allow anyone to do that."

　　He said that since the Crimea incident in 2014, Russia has been under Western sanctions, but in 2022 the West launched a real "sanctions war" against Russia, trying to completely destroy Russia's industry, finance and logistics. Failed.

Russia took a series of measures to stabilize the situation.

He appealed to the people that they should believe that Russia will overcome all difficulties and keep the country strong and independent.

(use up)