Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday opened his year-end news conference, an event that will be closely watched for his response to the U.S.-backed peace plan for

Sarcastic messages briefly flashed up on a big screen in the hall where Russian President Vladimir Putin was holding his annual press conference and "direct line" phone-in on Friday.

The annual event gives ordinary Russians a chance to question their leader, with queries expected on an end to the Ukraine war and boosting the economy.

Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized Friday that Moscow’s troops were advancing across the battlefield in Ukraine and voiced confidence that the Kremlin would achieve its goals militarily if Kyiv fails to agree to Russia’s conditions in peace talks.

Europe has “failed to rob” Russia of its frozen assets, President Vladimir Putin has said in the aftermath of a deal to offer Ukraine a massive €90bn interest-free loan. It did not reach an agreement on the use of frozen Russian assets. “They failed to rob, due to grave consequences for the robbers,” he said.

The annual news conference sets the Kremlin’s tone for the next year and highlights President Vladimir V. Putin’s grip over Russia.

Russian President Vladimir Putin warned on Friday of risks for international reserves held by the world's top oil producers in the European Union, following discussions by EU leaders about using Russian assets to finance Ukraine.