In his annual pre-Christmas Q&A session, Russian President Vladimir Putin discussed the state of the world, economic growth in Russia, and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. He confidently asserted that Russia is progressing despite external threats, and offered reassurances regarding the situation in the Kursk region. Putin also revealed plans for extensive reconstruction in annexed Ukrainian territories and emphasized the importance of increasing the birth rate in Russia. The session touched upon international relations with Syria and remarks on notable individuals, including former German Chancellor Helmut Kohl.