Vladimir Putin's Bloody New Year Speech

"Federation Council members, State Duma deputies, people of the Russian Federation, good morning. This day on the 1st of January of 2017 is supposed to be a time of celebration, a time of joy and happiness. That happiness has perished today as many mourn the loss of friends, of mothers, of fathers, and of children to a horrendous act of terrorism and an attack on the Russian people.

As you are already aware, the actions of today will shape the future of our children and grandchildren, and thus, with the actions committed against Russia today, this government has officially authorised the deployment of a force of 75,000 ground troops into the Syrian Arab Republic, and an increase in the intensity of air strikes and cruise missile attacks against Daesh, and other terrorist groups in the region.

Such considerations must not be taken lightly, but the actions of this bloody New Year have left us with no other choice.

In these times of hardship and struggle, the Russian people must never forget what we have achieved over the past few years, and much less for our allies in Syria. We should be very well aware that when we first started relations with Syria, it was the time of decolonisation and the Soviet Union needed allies. Stalin got his wish and it formalised back in 1971, 17 years after his death. Since then, we have had a strong relationship and a bond that many have tried to break and failed. And now, we return them the favour and help them as they helped us.

In the coming days, there will be struggle and hardship, but in the end, we will triumph and we will overcome said hardship. Thank you." - Vladimir Putin, Bloody New Year Speech, 1st of January of 2017