Russia's Santa Claus video mocks Zelenskyy with handcuffs, drawing backlash amid Ukraine war.

A New Year video released by Russian state media Sputnik shows President Putin as Santa Claus giving symbolic gifts to world leaders, reflecting Moscow’s geopolitical aims. The animated clip features Xi Jinping receiving currency ornaments symbolizing economic alignment, Modi a model of a Russian stealth fighter, Erdoğan a snow globe of the Akkuyu nuclear plant, and Kim Jong Un a sword with a note of gratitude. Trump is shown a photo from their 2018 summit, while Zelenskyy is depicted receiving handcuffs and imprisoned, drawing sharp criticism. The video, released amid ongoing war in Ukraine, underscores Russia’s diplomatic messaging and strategic alliances.