Dhaka, Dec. 18 -- President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday that Russia would achieve its goals in Ukraine by diplomatic or military means, and would seek to expand a "security buffer zone" there.
"First, the goals of the special military operation will undoubtedly be achieved. We would prefer to do this and address the root causes of the conflict through diplomacy," Putin said.
"If the opposing side and their foreign patrons refuse to engage in substantive discussions, Russia will achieve the liberation of its historical lands by military means.
The task of creating and expanding a security buffer zone will also be consistently addressed."
Of the regions of Ukraine that Russia has claimed as its own territory, it currently controls Cr...