© Mikhail Klimentyev/Russian Presidential Press and Information Office/TASS
* Vladimir Putin said Moscow 'firmly' defended its interests during a TV address
* Russian President also praised Russia's strength in face of 'colossal challenges'
* The televised address was broadcast hours after Putin phone call with Joe Biden
President Vladimir Putin has said Moscow 'firmly' defended its interests in 2021 - a year marked by an unprecedented crackdown on the opposition and increased tensions with the West - in a New Year's address.
The broadcast aired at midnight in the Far Eastern Kamchatka peninsula and was reported by Russian agencies.
In the speech, Putin said: 'We firmly and consistently defended our national interests, the security of the country and (of) citizens.'
Read more ....
WNU Editor: Guess who is on Putin's "naughty or nice list" .... Who has made Putin's 2021 naughty or nice list? (RT).
Russian President Putin Delivers His New Year Message
Putin calls good health a top wish for everyone for 2022 -- TASS
Putin’s New Year Address breaks record for duration for second year in a row -- TASS
Putin Says Russia 'Firmly' Defended Interests in 2021 -- Moscow Times/AFP
Putin wishes Russians happier new year, hails their strength -- AP
In New Year's Greetings, Putin Praises Russian Solidarity, As Navalny Urges Optimism -- RFE