Putin wishes Russians happier new year, hails... ... Happy New Year 2022 Updates: India welcomes the New Year

Putin wishes Russians happier new year, hails their strength

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday wished Russians positive changes in the new year, hailing their solidarity and strength in the face of tough challenges like the coronavirus pandemic. In a televised address broadcast just before midnight in each of Russia's 11 time zones, Putin said the nation of nearly 146 million has faced “colossal challenges but has learned to live in those harsh conditions and solve difficult tasks thanks to our solidarity”.