Website of the President of Russia: All Publications

Meeting with Krasnodar Territory Governor Veniamin Kondratyev

2026-04-11T14:51:19+04:00

Late last evening, Vladimir Putin had a working meeting with Krasnodar Territory Governor Veniamin Kondratyev.

The President began the meeting with highlighting the Krasnodar Territory’s major contribution to ensuring the country’s food safety, and asked about the progress of the sowing campaign.

According to Veniamin Kondratyev, the sowing campaign is proceeding successfully. A total of 1.8 million hectares have been allocated for winter crops; the seedlings are in good condition, and soil moisture levels are sufficient to expect a strong harvest. The spring sowing campaign is scheduled to be completed by May 1.

The region is fully supplied with fuel, lubricants, and fertilisers, which, according to the governor, will further support a positive harvest outlook.

Vladimir Putin asked about the reasons behind the decline in agricultural production recorded in 2025. Veniamin Kondratyev suggested that this was largely due to the wheat harvest, which totalled 11.2 million tonnes and was affected first by recurrent frosts and subsequently by drought conditions.

According to the governor, the Krasnodar Territory is the national leader in terms of agricultural production, including milk production, and is among the top five regions for vegetable, fruit, and meat output.

Veniamin Kondratyev also updated the President on the situation in the agro-industrial complex: 100 percent of wheat, rice, and soybean seeds are domestically produced. The governor added that just six years ago, all seeds were imported.

The President asked about the outlook for the region’s resort season following the oil spill in the Kerch Strait. Veniamin Kondratyev noted that, due to measures taken under the supervision of the President and the Government, Anapa is expected to once again receive its full number of tourists this year. Vladimir Putin added that all beaches in the Krasnodar Territory could be open this season, a possibility the governor supported.

Veniamin Kondratyev also reported that local grape seedling production has quadrupled over the past six years, while 6,500 new vineyards have been created in the region. He noted that, following the adoption of legislation on viticulture and winemaking, a distinct economic sector has taken shape in the region.

In addition, the economy of the Krasnodar Territory has become more diversified, with more than 2,300 IT companies established there over the past four years.

According to Veniamin Kondratyev, the regional domestic product is also showing growth: in 2021, it amounted to 3 trillion rubles, in 2022 to 3.5 trillion rubles, in 2023 to 4 trillion rubles, in 2024 to 4.7 trillion rubles, and in 2025 to 5.8 trillion rubles. The President found these figures positive.

Meeting on development of AI technologies

2026-04-11T14:57:27+04:00

The President chaired a meeting on the development of artificial intelligence technologies at the Kremlin.

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Colleagues,

Today, with the involvement of top Russian technology companies, we will review the progress of our joint efforts in the field of artificial intelligence. Together with many of those present here, we return to this topic in various formats and settings on a regular basis. Just at the end of last year, during Sber’s specialised conference (is Mr Gref present here?), as well as at the meeting of the Council for Strategic Development and National Projects, we had an extensive discussion of the exceptional and far-reaching importance of the work to develop and widely implement of these solutions.

I want to emphasise once again that artificial intelligence, along with digital platforms and autonomous systems, is shaping an entirely new landscape for the economy, public relations, the social sphere, education, healthcare, logistics and industry, as well as defence and security – in essence, for the life of the nation as a whole. The sovereignty of the Russian state in the near future – and, without exaggeration, its very existence – depends on our ability to keep pace with these global transformations.

It is also crucial to recognise the rapid pace of advancement in artificial intelligence technologies. Foundation language models and neural networks with immense computational capacity are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Until recently, such systems were tested primarily on their ability to process encyclopaedic knowledge. However, this year, during specialised evaluations, they have demonstrated remarkable capabilities for deep, interdisciplinary analysis.

Next, language models are used to create intelligent assistants, so-called artificial intelligence agents, or AI agents. They no longer simply execute specific commands and answer simple user questions; they also solve tasks assigned to them autonomously, largely without human intervention.

Crucially, these AI agents are already approaching a new level of independence. They are learning to plan their actions, evaluate outcomes, and interact both with people and with the real world. Over the past year, a notable threshold has been reached in a certain sense: in the majority of experiments, participants perceived machine responses as genuine dialogue with a real interlocutor. In other words, these systems have demonstrated the ability to convincingly imitate humans and their cognitive and even emotional behaviour.

It is expected that in the near future, such agents will also be capable of passing physical-world tests. For example, it may become difficult to determine whether a vehicle is being operated by a human driver or an autonomous AI pilot.

This underscores a key point: the widespread deployment of language models – and, obviously, their development and scaling – are of fundamental importance for the country’s future.

Experts who are present here today are well aware that the development of these language models and AI agents often relies on so-called open-source solutions, with shared libraries of algorithms created through global collaboration among developers. This cooperative resource should, of course, be used effectively.

I would like to emphasise that language models constitute a foundational, cross-cutting technology underpinning sovereign development across all sectors. Only if we have domestic models we can ensure technological progress, as well as maintain security, defence capability, and – which is vital – stay on the cutting edge in scientific and engineering fields, particularly given that our country is among the few states that boast unique competencies in this domain.

For this reason, I believe it essential to provide conditions for the creation and continued development of domestic foundation artificial intelligence models. These systems should be globally competitive while also ensuring a high degree of technological sovereignty. This implies that the full cycle of development and training should be carried out by domestic companies, enabling our engineers to have full control over key parameters of such complex systems.

I would like to make a quick remark here. To my colleagues with whom I have already met and discussed this very important and sensitive topic: please don’t be alarmed. We have gathered here today precisely to address all the details and nuances. If we borrow something from our partners, we must ensure that any further steps in building artificial intelligence architecture will guarantee solutions to security and defence challenges. We will discuss these topics now.

I would like to ask the Government to develop the financial architecture for this ambitious, nationally significant project. All relevant stakeholders must be involved in its implementation: the government, private technology companies, and, obviously, state-owned enterprises. We should also make full use of the potential offered by our defence and security programmes. The effectiveness of this approach is demonstrated by the experience of countries that are leaders in artificial intelligence. We are familiar with this experience, including how state-owned companies operate abroad, including defence authorities, and how they allocate resources to implement such programmes. In pursuit of the objectives of defence agencies and special services, finances are allocated and both public and private funding is mobilised; this approach overall delivers strong results.

Colleagues, I would like to emphasise the practical application of advanced technologies. I have already instructed the Government, jointly with regional authorities, to develop a National Plan for the Implementation of Artificial Intelligence at the country level, with due regard for the needs of industries and the constituent entities of the Russian Federation. By 2030, these technologies and products based on them should be deployed across all sectors, including manufacturing, logistics, energy, public administration, and education.

I know that the Government and legislators are currently working on the regulatory framework for artificial intelligence. I would like to stress once again that regulation must be designed to encourage and accelerate the creation and adoption of advanced technologies rather than to constrain or slow down development. If we introduce barriers at this stage, we will inevitably fall behind in economic, technological, social, and public development.

I want to emphasise again that we are talking about ensuring the widespread, comprehensive adoption of artificial intelligence and the creation of a domestic market for such solutions in Russia. This is a priority for both domestic businesses and, of course, for federal and regional authorities.

I believe that heads of ministries and agencies should report annually on the outcomes of artificial intelligence implementation in their respective sectors. I am not referring to formal written reports, but to open, public presentations showcasing the actual solutions in use. This year, we will hear from our colleagues at a specialised exhibition as part of Sber’s annual AI Journey conference.

Colleagues, I would like to say a few words about the future organisation of our work. The commission chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Grigorenko and Deputy Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office Maxim Oreshkin will be responsible for shaping the strategy and ensuring systemic coordination of efforts in the field of artificial intelligence. The Commission members also include representatives of the Presidential Executive Office, ministries and agencies, leading technology companies, and the State Council. The relevant executive order has already been signed.

I would like to ask the Commission to review and propose comprehensive solutions this year, including in the following key areas.

First, the development of programmes for the accelerated deployment of artificial intelligence across priority sectors of the economy and the social sphere, as well as in public administration.

Second, the entire human development system, from primary education to the labour market, must be aligned with the extensive adoption of artificial intelligence. It is essential to promptly modernise training and retraining mechanisms, as well as levels of education, to reflect the emerging technological paradigm.

Third, given the expanding use of artificial intelligence in sensitive sectors and its growing overall impact on individuals, society, and the economy, I consider it crucial to assess the main risks and threats associated with such systems and to identify timely measures to mitigate them.

Fourth, the development of domestic artificial intelligence solutions for national defence and security. Once again, we must possess cutting-edge technologies and rely on sovereign, domestically developed products. I have already mentioned certain nuances and specifics in this regard, which we will now, of course, discuss further.

Fifth, the creation of a comprehensive framework to promote Russian artificial intelligence systems and related services in international markets, as well as to expand cooperation in this strategically important field with our partners in the CIS, SCO, and BRICS.

Let me reiterate that I expect the Commission to consolidate the efforts of business, the scientific community, and the government, and to serve as an effective coordinating centre for the advancement of artificial intelligence in our country.

Let us proceed to discuss the proposed issues. Mr Grigorenko, please go ahead.

<…>

Greetings to participants, organisers, and guests of the 7th Tsiolkovsky International Space Film Festival

2026-04-10T18:11:06+04:00

Vladimir Putin sent greetings to participants, organisers, and guests of the 7^th Tsiolkovsky International Space Film Festival.

The message reads, in part:

“This year’s festival is taking place in the year marking the 65th anniversary of Yury Gagarin’s legendary space flight, and its programme therefore features an impressive number of celebratory events. Visitors can look forward to discovering new feature, documentary and animated films dedicated to landmark chapters in the history of Russia’s space exploration, as well as educational tours, exhibitions, academic discussions and meetings with prominent politicians, scientists and performers.

I am confident that the Tsiolkovsky Space Film Festival will become an important event in the country’s cultural and public life, and that its programme will generate genuine interest among people of all ages – young audiences, families with children, and guests who have come to the Kaluga Region from across Russia and from abroad. The forum will, of course, also help to promote knowledge about space and enhance the prestige of professions associated with the rocket and space industry.”

Seminar-conference on implementing State Ethnic Policy Strategy

2026-04-10T21:13:22+04:00

Deputy Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office Magomedsalam Magomedov and Deputy Presidential Plenipotentiary Envoy to the Volga Federal District Igor Burenkov held a district seminar-conference devoted to the practice and tasks of the executive authorities of the constituent entities of the Russian Federation in implementing the State Ethnic Policy Strategy.

The meeting was attended by Head of the Federal Agency for Ethnic Affairs Igor Barinov, Head of the Chuvash Republic Oleg Nikolayev, deputy governors and representatives of regional government bodies, expert communities, and public organisations, as well as members of the Presidential Council for Interethnic Relations Vladimir Ivanov and Anna Polezhayeva.

Matters pertaining to interethnic relations and the situation in each region within the district were discussed.

Emphasis was placed on the implementation of the President’s instructions to the top officials of the constituent entities within the Volga Federal District, specifically with regard to the necessity of completing without delay the drafting of plans and amendments to strategic planning documents and state programmes. This entails ensuring the alignment of goals, tasks, priorities, target indicators, and other provisions of the new State Ethnic Policy Strategy for the period up to 2036, and of instructions designed to enhance the efficacy of the implementation of state ethnic policy at the local level.

Following the meeting, appropriate decisions were adopted.

Pursuant to the President’s instruction, seminar-conferences are held annually in each federal district.

Telephone conversation with Ramzan Kadyrov and Alexander Kurenkov

2026-04-10T19:31:06+04:00

Vladimir Putin held a phone conversation with Head of the Chechen Republic Ramzan Kadyrov and Emergencies Minister Alexander Kurenkov, who is currently in the region.

The discussion focused on providing relief to the republic following flooding and flash floods caused by abnormal rainfall, as well as organising assistance for those affected.

Greetings to employees and veterans of the Russian Federal Nuclear Centre – All-Russian Scientific Research Institute of Experimental Physics

2026-04-10T12:26:15+04:00

Vladimir Putin sent greetings to employees and veterans of the Russian Federal Nuclear Centre – All-Russian Scientific Research Institute of Experimental Physics on the organisation’s 80^th anniversary.

The message reads, in part:

“This anniversary is a major and significant event not only for your team, but also for Russia’s nuclear industry and for the country as a whole. It was at the Sarov Nuclear Centre that the foundations of the nuclear shield were laid – a shield that has for many years reliably ensured our country’s security and sovereignty. It is here that unique engineering solutions were developed, opening up new opportunities for strengthening the defence industry, advancing the energy sector, transport and medicine, and for the exploration of the Arctic, the World Ocean and outer space.

I would like to emphasise that these impressive successes and achievements are founded on the selfless and heroic work of outstanding scientists, engineers and specialists. Their bold, innovative breakthroughs, their enthusiasm and true dedication stand as a vivid example of teamwork at the highest professional level, and of unwavering commitment to their chosen field and the interests of the Motherland.

It is encouraging to see that you are carrying forward the proud traditions of your predecessors and the Centre’s veterans, making a substantial contribution to the country’s technological independence and to the development of priority areas in science and the economy.”

The President of Russia made a decision on a ceasefire in connection with the upcoming Orthodox Easter holidays

2026-04-09T23:07:23+04:00

By the authority of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Federation Armed Forces Vladimir Putin, a ceasefire has been announced in connection with the upcoming Orthodox Easter holidays that will be in effect from April 11, 4:00 pm Moscow time until the end of the day on April 12, 2026.

Russian Federation Defence Minister Andrei Belousov and Chief of the General Staff of the Russian Federation Armed Forces – Commander of the Joint Group of Forces Army General Valery Gerasimov were instructed to cease combat activity on all fronts during this period. The troops are to be ready to counter any provocation or other aggressive actions by the enemy.

It is assumed that the Ukrainian side will follow the example of the Russian Federation.

Meeting with Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Grigorenko

2026-04-10T12:14:33+04:00

Deputy Prime Minister and Chief of the Government Staff Dmitry Grigorenko briefed the President on the progress of digitalisation of government services.

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Mr Grigorenko, I propose we begin with the development of the Gosuslugi system. I know you would like to report on a number of other issues as well. Let’s get started.

Deputy Prime Minister and Chief of the Government Staff Dmitry Grigorenko: Mr President, you pay close attention to the quality of government services. The government is actively improving them. We are currently working to digitalise government services. This is important because it greatly simplifies access to these services and eliminates bureaucracy. And it is simply very convenient.

Today, the Gosuslugi portal has become something of a calling card, even on a global scale. Other countries compare the range of services we offer on the Gosuslugi portal and the way we deliver them with their own systems.

Currently, over 112 million people are registered, and 14 million people use the Gosuslugi portal daily to access services. The portal offers over 1,600 government services, and our current focus is on standardising the existing ones, not just adding new services.

Vladimir Putin: You are making it more user-friendly.

Dmitry Grigorenko: Yes, we are creating “life events”. We also have a dedicated project for their development. We currently have 70 such events, with more and more being added every year. Over 72 million people have already used them. This represents stratospheric growth over the past two years – the user base has increased a hundredfold.

By grouping government services into life events, we reduce the number of documents required to obtain a single independent government service (or a service within a life event) by almost 90 percent. Processing times are also reduced by over 80 percent. At present, the average time to receive services within a life event is three days, compared to 16 days for individual government services. The number of visits is falling, people are very satisfied with this, and they are demanding new life events and new digital government services.

Please look at the third slide, which shows the top six life events in demand today. Our traditionally top-ranked service is the comprehensive “Online University Admissions” service. We provided 10 million of these services in 2025. In second place is receiving a tax deduction. Third place – and this is important, as we only launched this life event last year – is retirement. To date, this service has been used 6 million times. Sixth is “Hunting and Fishing”.

Vladimir Putin: People receive certificates about…

Dmitry Grigorenko: Not just certificates.

Vladimir Putin: What else? What can this website do?

Dmitry Grigorenko: From complete guidance on the retirement process, from obtaining a pension certificate and becoming a pensioner, to a full range of benefits, statuses, confirmations, social cards, and so on – it is all available. First, users can find out what they are entitled to. Second, they can apply for everything in one go through the Gosuslugi portal, including registering with all social institutions and the Pension Fund. It really is very convenient.

There is also another important issue which has become a global problem today, namely cyber fraud – fraud conducted via the internet.

Acting on your instructions – you issued the relevant instruction last year – we have been actively engaged in combating cyber fraud, developing a set of measures aimed at tackling it. Looking at the statistics, over the five-year period from 2019 until the end of 2024, according to data from the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the number of crimes committed using information technologies has increased 2.5-fold, from 294,000 to 765,000. Accordingly, the scale of the damage has also grown.

Vladimir Putin: Excuse me, so in 2019 it was 294,000 cases, and in 2024 it reached 765,000?

Dmitry Grigorenko: Yes, a 2.5-fold increase. The figures for damage are shown on the next line – these are Interior Ministry statistics. According to Sber, the figures are even higher, although Sber’s data is analytical, whereas the Interior Ministry’s statistics are…

Vladimir Putin: The trend is enormous – almost a fivefold increase.

Dmitry Grigorenko: Last year, together with colleagues from law enforcement agencies, the Interior Ministry and the Central Bank, we conducted joint work; State Duma deputies also actively contributed. We developed a comprehensive package of measures aimed at combating cyber fraud. More than 20 specific measures were proposed; they entered into force on April 1, 2025.

Let me highlight what are probably the most effective measures. There is now an option to impose a self-ban on taking out loans. What is the aim of fraudulent schemes? To obtain access to personal accounts, for example, by stealing passwords, and then to take out a loan in someone else’s name. Now, with a single click, for instance via the Gosuslugi portal, where the relevant service is available, it is possible to prohibit calls from banks and telecom operators via messaging apps, as fraudulent activity typically begins via messaging platforms. The call is made not through a landline, but via a messaging app. This has now been prohibited by law, and people can recognise that if they receive a call through a messaging app, it is most likely fraudulent – callers may, for example, pose as bank employees or representatives of other institutions.

Call labelling has also been introduced; this measure has proven to be in high demand. In practice, when a call is made by an institution or organisation, the screen displays not a string of digits but the name of the organisation. Accordingly, if a call is ostensibly from, say, a local clinic, but the name does not appear on the screen, it is clear that this is likely a fraudulent attempt.

We are also making active use of biometrics. This is a voluntary measure, applied when taking out microloans, setting passwords, and so on. Criminals may obtain passwords and documents through deceptive means, but a person’s biometric data, such as facial recognition, is much harder to steal or falsify. This, too, is therefore a highly effective measure.

Vladimir Putin: What is the Antifraud platform?

Dmitry Grigorenko: Antifraud is a digital platform to which banks, telecom operators and law enforcement agencies can submit information whenever they detect or record fraudulent activity. Any participant can upload such data so that all others are immediately aware they are dealing with a fraudster.

Vladimir Putin: So others can use it to identify a fraudster.

Dmitry Grigorenko: Crucially, telecom operators, law enforcement agencies and banks all see this information straight away. Previously, the problem was that a fraudster would deceive a customer at one bank, then move on to another, which had no idea they were dealing with the same individual, and then to a third. Each case was handled in isolation. The platform allows any participant to flag a suspected fraudster as soon as they are identified.

Vladimir Putin: So it is accessible to all participants.

Dmitry Grigorenko: Yes, and we are continuing to expand it. We are now also developing risk-scenario profiles, where we can predict that an individual is likely to be a fraudster and share that information via the platform. At the same time, it is important to understand that citizens themselves must remain vigilant – this is a set of measures designed to help them avoid being deceived.

Following the first package of measures, the number of crimes committed using ICT fell for the first time – by 12 percent in 2025. Accordingly, the total amount of damage is also declining.

According to survey data, 50 percent of Russians reported a decrease in fraudulent calls, while 92 percent consider call labelling to be a highly effective measure.

Vladimir Putin: The total damage is decreasing.

Dmitry Grigorenko: Yes, for the first time the overall losses are also going down. We have managed to reverse the trend. The services we have introduced, for example, the self-ban on loans, illustrate this well. Since March 2025, 26 million people have activated such a ban. It can be done with a single click and is highly effective. Even if a person is deceived, fraudsters cannot take out a loan in their name because of the ban: loans can only be obtained in person at a bank, which fraudsters cannot do.

Vladimir Putin: A self-ban on issuing new SIM cards as well.

Dmitry Grigorenko: Yes, this is also an option.

Vladimir Putin: Do fraudsters actually obtain SIM cards themselves?

Dmitry Grigorenko: The essence of online fraud is to obtain your personal data – login details, passwords and so on – and then use them to take out a loan or register a SIM card in your name. That SIM card can then be used for identification with a bank, to receive passwords, and so forth. Ultimately, it all comes down to money – either stolen through loan schemes or transferred by the victim themselves. That is why these self-bans are such important tools: people can use them independently, and they are doing so actively.

This [slide] shows how the Antifraud platform operates. We continue to develop it and are working closely with the Central Bank and law enforcement agencies.

We are currently preparing a second package of measures. The bill has passed its first reading, and we are now preparing amendments for the second reading. The key point I would like to highlight is that we want to introduce a so-called red button service on the Gosuslugi portal, which alerts the authorities as soon as a citizen realises they have been scammed. What is the main problem? The victim is on the phone with the fraudster, they hang up, and only then do they realise they have been deceived. Where are they supposed to go? File a complaint? Contact an official? That crucial window of time plays right into the scammers’ hands.

Vladimir Putin: Fraudsters use that time to withdraw money.

Dmitry Grigorenko: Exactly. And what we are proposing is a set of measures whereby pressing the red button on Gosuslugi immediately notifies everyone, including banks and telecom operators, that a scam has taken place.

We also only allow passwords on Gosuslugi to be changed using a verified method.

Vladimir Putin: Could you say a few words about children’s SIM cards?

Dmitry Grigorenko: Children’s SIM cards. We want to give parents the right to purchase appropriate SIM cards, which would allow them to restrict certain content for children accessing the internet on their phones using those SIM cards. That includes blocking access to websites unsuitable for children, as well as restricting calls from unknown numbers, and so on. This is a measure we are proposing for parents. Many telecom operators, by the way, are already offering similar features. We want to formalise this and make it a system-wide approach. It is also very effective, because, unfortunately, children are even easier to deceive than adults.

Vladimir Putin: What about a system for banks and operators to compensate victims for losses?

Dmitry Grigorenko: We are currently discussing this actively with the Central Bank. If information about a fraudster is recorded and available in the information system, the Antifraud platform, and, despite that information, a telecom operator connects a call from the fraudster, resulting in the person being defrauded, or if a bank, knowing that the Antifraud platform contains such information, issues a loan and completes the transaction, then compensation for losses will be automatically assigned to the bank or telecom operator that made the error.

Vladimir Putin: This means we view a bank or telecom operator as a high-risk instrument, a high-risk entity. Similar to a car, where all else being equal, the driver is always at fault.

Dmitry Grigorenko: But here, it is not always the driver’s fault. We provide banks with all the tools and clearly set out in the law the specific circumstances under which this automatic charge applies. We are trying to start with clear-cut cases to create a financial incentive for both banks and telecom operators to protect citizens.

Vladimir Putin: This still needs some refinement, of course. But overall, from the perspective of protecting citizens’ interests, it is fair.

Dmitry Grigorenko: Yes, the balance here is tilted in favour of protecting citizens’ interests.

<…>

Law to protect historical memory

2026-04-09T20:19:02+04:00

The President signed Federal Law On Amendments to Articles 243.4 and 354.1 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation.

The Federal Law introduces criminal liability for socially dangerous acts committed against the burial sites of victims of the genocide of the Soviet people, as well as against memorials dedicated to them. It also criminalises the denial of the genocide of the Soviet people and any insult to the memory of its victims.

Greetings to the first Russian Space Forum

2026-04-09T16:43:36+04:00

Vladimir Putin sent his greetings to the participants, organisers, and guests of the first Russian Space Forum.

The message reads, in part:

“It is my pleasure to welcome you to the inaugural Russian Space Forum, the central event of Space Week taking place across the nation.

This year, Russia and the entire world commemorate the 65^th anniversary of Yury Gagarin’s legendary flight. This historic launch stands as one of the greatest events of the 20^th century, heralding a new era in the annals of civilisation. We take sincere pride in the successive generations of talented scientists, designers, cosmonauts, and both military and civilian specialists who were at the forefront of the national space programme, adding vivid, heroic chapters to the chronicles of its victories and achievements.

Today, the advancement of the rocket and space sector, alongside the strengthening of its scientific, human resources, and technological potential, remains among our unconditional priorities. I would like to underscore that to progress and sustain leading positions in space exploration, it is imperative to consolidate efforts among the state, business, and research communities along this strategic course, and to collectively address the large-scale challenges necessitated by the times in enhancing the production base and ground infrastructure of the industry. It is of utmost importance to expand satellite constellations and to widely integrate new materials, digital, and nuclear technologies.

I am convinced that the innovative development of Russia, the improvement of the level and quality of people’s lives, the provision of the country’s defence capability and security, and the sovereignty of the Fatherland are directly contingent upon the effective implementation of space programmes.”

Protection of Russia’s critical information infrastructure enhanced

2026-04-09T20:17:30+04:00

Vladimir Putin signed Federal Law On Amendments to Article 274.1 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation.

The Federal Law aims to enhance the security of the Russian Federation’s critical information infrastructure.

To this end, amendments are being introduced to Article 2741 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation, “Unlawful Impact on the Critical Information Infrastructure of the Russian Federation.” The revisions clarify the socially dangerous consequences of such offenses, specifying that they include destruction, blocking, modification, and copying of computer data within the critical information infrastructure systems of the Russian Federation.

Greetings on the opening of the 14th Congress of Russian Oncologists attended by foreign delegates, Dialogue of Generations, in Kazan

2026-04-09T13:20:14+04:00

Vladimir Putin sent greetings to the participants and organisers of the 14^th Congress of Russian Oncologists attended by foreign delegates, Dialogue of Generations, timed to coincide with the 80^th anniversary of the oncological service in Tatarstan.

The message reads, in part:

“I consider it important that every year your congress brings together renowned scientists, physicians, heads of specialised medical institutions, educational organisations, ministries and agencies from Russia and abroad at its authoritative venue to discuss pressing professional issues. Such a representative composition of participants, the forum’s packed programme, and the opportunity to exchange accumulated experience, best practices, innovative technologies and new approaches to healthcare organisation contribute to the consolidation of specialists’ efforts in addressing the critical tasks facing Russian oncologists. They serve to enhance the effectiveness of diagnosis and treatment of dangerous diseases.

I am confident that this congress and the 2^nd Emergency Oncology Convention, taking place within its framework, will spark a keen interest in the participants, and the proposals and recommendations voiced will certainly be in demand.”

Greetings to the 10th St Petersburg International Labour Forum

2026-04-09T15:00:41+04:00

Vladimir Putin sent greetings to the participants, organisers and guests of the 10^thSt Petersburg International Labour Forum, The World of Labour 2030–2040.

The message reads, in part:

“Over the past years, your forum has become an influential and powerful platform in Russia for discussing key aspects shaping the labour market regulation and human capital development agenda.

I am pleased to note that your discussions are founded on serious research, analysis, and prognostic data. This fundamental approach is exceptionally valuable today, as it consolidates the efforts of the state, business, research and academic communities around common goals and objectives. Your top priorities include improving educational and professional standards, deepening the integration between the demands of the labour market and the training system for qualified and competitive professionals. And of course, it is particularly important to focus on the broad implementation of HR technologies and digital solutions, increasing productivity, and regulating migration.

I am confident that the forum will offer a creative and constructive environment for the participants to exchange positive experience and best practices.”

Meeting with Ivanovo Region Governor Stanislav Voskresensky

2026-04-08T18:33:28+04:00

Vladimir Putin held a working meeting with Governor of the Ivanovo Region Stanislav Voskresensky.

Before discussing the region’s economic issues, Stanislav Voskresensky spoke about ongoing efforts to commemorate historical events and prominent figures associated with the Ivanovo Region, specifically the Land of Heroes project. This project disseminates information about heroes of the Russian Empire, the Soviet Union, and modern Russia who lived in the Ivanovo Region – through social media, online platforms, and lectures. Particular attention is paid to heroes of the special military operation. In total, he noted, they have commemorated 157 Heroes of the Soviet Union, 21 Heroes of Russia, and four Knights of the Order of St George (III and IV Degree) from the Russian Empire.

Turning to industry, the Governor noted that the region’s economy has traditionally relied on light industry, predominantly small and medium‑sized enterprises. However, he said that for the economy to be truly sustainable, it is necessary to build expertise in other sectors and, most importantly, to achieve income growth. He gave several specific examples.

One such example is Neurosoft, a company that produces sophisticated medical equipment in the fields of neurophysiology, functional diagnostics and rehabilitation, including equipment for the rehabilitation of veterans and helping them regain mobility after injuries sustained during the special military operation. The company has decided to significantly expand operations and create facilities for other medical device manufacturers on the newly acquired technology park grounds.

Another example is Professional. For the first time in 30 years, a new road construction equipment plant has been built in Ivanovo. Furthermore, Aquarius, a microelectronics company, has mastered the production of 4G base stations and is developing 5G stations. Expertise is also being developed within light industry, and at least two investment projects have already been launched. All of this has allowed the region’s own budget revenues to increase by 170 percent over seven years. Fiscal revenues have more than doubled. The region has become less dependent on subsidies.

The additional revenue is being used to address important issues, such as renovating kindergartens and improving street lighting. The first 200 kindergartens have already been renovated, which accounts for almost two‑thirds of all kindergartens. Additionally in all small towns, 95 percent of streets are now lit.

Stanislav Voskresensky recalled the President’s remarks that, during a time of technological transformation and the development of artificial intelligence, it is important to train young people in a way that ensures they retain their ability to think and possess engineering skills above all else. The Solaris Centre for Gifted Children is being used for this purpose, and a project is underway in which young scientists give lectures on natural sciences to schoolchildren. Positive results have already been achieved. The Ministry of Education has set a benchmark for the proportion of schoolchildren who choose sciences, including mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology and computer science, for their National Final School Exam (EGE). Last year, the Ivanovo Region ranked first in the country in terms of this indicator.

Summing up the discussion, the President noted the region’s positive growth dynamics, including in construction and agricultural output, but highlighted certain everyday issues, in particular, timely waste collection and the installation of appropriate waste disposal sites. People’s lives, Vladimir Putin said, are made up of such everyday matters.

Meeting on flood relief efforts in Daghestan

2026-04-08T11:05:41+04:00

Vladimir Putin held a meeting, via videoconference, on flood relief efforts in the Republic of Daghestan.

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Colleagues, good afternoon,

Today, as agreed, we will discuss in detail the issues related to the disaster relief operations in the Republic of Daghestan. We are talking about the heavy spring flooding and torrential rains that caused widespread flash flooding in the Republic.

I would note that in just one day – March 30 – Daghestan had the equivalent of three months’ worth of precipitation. Since meteorological observations began – in 1882 – such figures have never been recorded in the region, never. Due to the abnormal weather, on April 5, an earth dam of the Gedzhukh Reservoir burst in the Derbent District. As a result, residents of several communities were evacuated. Unfortunately, there are casualties, and there are fatalities.

In several municipalities, electric power supply has been disrupted, and road infrastructure, including bridges, has suffered significant damage. Due to the risk of landslides and mudslides, traffic has been halted or is impeded on several road and rail sections.

We must keep this situation under constant control. On April 6, reports on the situation were heard from Emergencies Minister Alexander Kurenkov and from Head of Daghestan Sergei Melikov, and an instruction was issued to promptly provide assistance to the affected people. According to the reports, sufficient forces and resources have been mobilised overall to deal with the aftermath of the flooding – at least, that is what I heard from the report. Emergencies Ministry staff, together with colleagues from other federal agencies and law enforcement bodies, are acting in a coordinated manner. Volunteers are actively assisting them. For this, friends, I would particularly like to thank you.

Today, in addition to the Head of the Republic of Daghestan, and at my request, the heads of the most affected municipalities are taking part in our meeting: specifically, the city of Makhachkala, and the Derbent and Khasavyurt districts. I would like to hear your views on how the disaster relief effort is proceeding, what further assistance is needed from the Emergencies Ministry and other federal agencies, and which construction, road-building, and other specialised organisations need to be brought in.

Let me stress: federal, regional and local authorities must provide all necessary support to the victims. People need to receive help and support; they need to be kept constantly informed of the current situation; their complaints and appeals must be taken into account and responded to promptly; and those in need must receive timely medical and legal assistance. Naturally, we must keep the epidemiological and sanitary situation in the disaster zones under control, as well as carry out damage assessment. This is a challenging task; it must be carried out carefully, working on an individual basis with each affected family. In short, we must act professionally and consistently.

Let us begin our work. Please report on the current situation and on the measures taken to deal with the aftermath of the disaster at this very moment.

I give the floor to Head of the Emergencies Ministry Alexander Kurenkov. Please, go ahead.

<…>

Vladimir Putin: Colleagues, here is what I would like to say in conclusion.

We should establish a special government commission on flood relief efforts in the Republic of Daghestan. We talked about these aspects in detail just now. The commission should include representatives of the federal authorities, the region’s senior officials, and a deputy of the Presidential Plenipotentiary Envoy to the North Caucasus Federal District.

I have asked Magomed Ramazanov to attend our meeting today. Mr Ramazanov, you are working in the Far East now, but I would like you to go to Daghestan to work as a deputy Plenipotentiary Envoy in your home region. I believe that your knowledge and understanding of the situation, and your ability to communicate directly with the people will be essential.

The commission will be chaired by the Minister for Civil Defence, Emergencies and Natural Disaster Relief.

I have noted that the republican authorities have set up 51 working groups for damage assessment. These people will directly communicate with the affected families to assess the damage.

I would like to ask you to give individual attention to each family and each situation. I understand that the registration of some facts will be incomplete and others will be improperly documented, as is almost always the case in such situations. Of course, these problems must be dealt with, but this should be done calmly and, needless to say, in accordance with the law. But our key priority must be to help people without delay. I ask you to give priority attention to this.

I hope that the Commission, which will be set up without delay – I would like the Government to issue the relevant document today, will start working immediately and effectively, addressing the region’s problems and helping the people.

I would like to receive regular progress reports. Is this point clear, Mr Kurenkov?

Minister for Civil Defence, Emergencies and Natural Disaster Relief Alexander Kurenkov: Yes, Mr President, understood.

Vladimir Putin: Good.

Thank you. That will be all for today.

Congratulations to General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam To Lam

2026-04-07T12:26:28+04:00

Vladimir Putin sent his congratulations to General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam To Lam on his election as President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.

The message reads, in part:

“This decision of the National Assembly is yet another proof of your high political standing and broad support for your policy of accelerating Vietnam’s socioeconomic development and protecting its legitimate interests on the international stage.

I am confident that your activities as president will help to further strengthen relations of comprehensive strategic partnership between Moscow and Hanoi. I will be delighted to continue our constructive dialogue and close cooperation on the current bilateral, regional and international issues.”

Instructions regarding the flooding in Daghestan

2026-04-08T10:41:41+04:00

In phone calls with Emergencies Minister Alexander Kurenkov and Head of Daghestan Sergei Melikov, the President was briefed on the situation in the Republic following flooding caused by abnormal rainfall.

In order to provide assistance to the residents, the President gave the necessary instructions to all the relevant agencies.

In addition, Vladimir Putin gave an instruction to hold a meeting on April 7 with representatives of Daghestan, the Emergencies Ministry, and other federal agencies to discuss the situation in the region.

Meeting with Aeroflot CEO Sergei Aleksandrovsky

2026-04-06T17:09:08+04:00

Vladimir Putin held a working meeting with Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Management Board of Aeroflot – Russian Airlines Sergei Aleksandrovsky.

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Mr Alexandrovky, I reviewed the materials ahead of our meeting. I can see that, overall, the company performed well last year, with solid results. Passenger traffic was up, not significantly, but still up. Seat occupancy increased, and so did the profit margin. Overall, the financial position is sound.

I would like to discuss this in more detail and hear your assessments. After that, I would like you to report on the condition of the aircraft fleet and on social programmes.

Please go ahead.

Aeroflot CEO Sergei Aleksandrovsky: Mr President,

I would like to report on the Aeroflot Group’s performance in 2025. One of our key objectives was to maintain passenger traffic at the 2024 level, which we did. As a group, we carried 55.3 million passengers. Seat occupancy has also increased by 0.6 percentage points to 90.2 percent which is a historically high figure for Aeroflot. The average annual level for our business model typically stands at 82–85 percent, whereas we are now operating at over 90 percent of seat occupancy.

Overall, under the circumstances and taking into account the specifics, including maintaining serviceability, the group is operating at maximum capacity.

Increasing the company’s capitalisation is another priority. In this regard, we focus greatly on financial performance. By the end of 2025, revenue stood at around 900 billion rubles, representing an increase of approximately 5 percent compared to the year before.

I would also like to note that, for the first time since 2019, Aeroflot paid dividends in 2025, having posted a net profit (also for the first time since 2019). Dividends were paid based on the 2024 performance. We plan to propose dividend payments to shareholders for 2025 as well.

Vladimir Putin: This will immediately boost the company’s value and appeal.

Sergei Aleksandrovsky: You are right. Enhancing capitalisation is among our top priorities as well.

As for the aircraft fleet, the total number of aircraft is 352, including three operated under a wet lease agreement.

The serviceability of the aircraft fleet remains at an optimal level, comparable to 2019, despite ongoing constraints affecting airworthiness maintenance. This has allowed us to achieve strong operational performance, with total flight hours exceeding one million across the fleet. From 2023 to 2025, the average annual growth rate reached 8.9 percent. This performance is supported in part by the high calibre of our engineering staff. Our subsidiary, Aeroflot Technics, employs approximately 2,000 engineers and has the capacity to service up to 19 aircraft simultaneously in its hangars. This integrated approach ensures the efficient operation of the fleet.

I would also like to highlight the development of our regional operations and overall route network. In 2025, the network structure remained largely unchanged, with a greater focus on increasing frequencies on existing routes.

The balance between international and domestic traffic was broadly consistent with 2024: we carried 42 million passengers on domestic routes and 13.4 million on international routes.

One of the new routes we actively developed in 2025 was Nha Trang, Vietnam. We launched flights not only from Moscow but also from several regions across the Russian Federation.

In line with your priority of increasing the share of flights bypassing Moscow to at least 50 percent, Aeroflot Group achieved 63 percent in 2025. In total, our network comprises 297 routes, 186 of which operate bypassing Moscow, significantly improving transport accessibility for residents in the regions.

With regard to our key operating bases, Sheremetyevo Airport remains our primary hub. It is not only the leading airport in the Russian Federation but also among the leading airports in Europe, supported by advanced infrastructure and a well-developed IT platform. Our close operational integration at Sheremetyevo further enhances efficiency and supports our core activities.

We also continue to develop our Krasnoyarsk hub.

Vladimir Putin: It is increasingly developing as a hub, correct?

Sergei Aleksandrovsky: Yes, Krasnoyarsk is steadily growing. In 2025, we increased traffic there by 10 percent, and together with Moscow-connected flights, we carried approximately 2.4 million passengers through Krasnoyarsk. The hub currently serves 34 destinations.

The resumption of flights to the previously closed southern airports of Gelendzhik and Krasnodar was another landmark event in 2025. In 2025, we used these airports to carry 500,000 passengers. From Krasnodar, we operate flights to 13, including five international, destinations. In 2026, we plan to increase passenger traffic through these airports to 1.5 million, thus tripling the 2025 number. Importantly, though, these airports opened closer to mid-year in 2025.

One of our key priorities, including under our strategy to 2030, which was updated in 2025, is, of course, engaging with personnel, namely, enhancing employee satisfaction and involvement, which directly affect productivity and service quality. In terms of productivity, we have achieved strong results, reaching around 7 million seat-kilometres per employee, with an average annual growth rate of 17.8 percent in 2021–2025.

Vladimir Putin: Wages are rising as well, correct?

Sergei Aleksandrovsky: The average salary increased by 26.9 percent in 2025. We started doing this primarily for operational staff back in 2024 and continued in 2025. So this represents solid growth. The average salary at Aeroflot now stands at around 270,000 rubles.

Vladimir Putin: That is mainly due to flight crew salaries, correct?

Sergei Aleksandrovsky: You are right. Pilots’ salaries are the highest among our staff and significantly affect the overall figure.

As I mentioned earlier, the Aeroflot Group’s strategy was updated in 2025. The main priorities include operational growth and financial sustainability, with passenger traffic growth primarily driven by fleet expansion. We plan to expand the fleet through the introduction of new domestically produced MS-21 aircraft.

Client-centricity and improving service quality is another focus area. While Aeroflot has traditionally maintained high standard in this regard, we will continue raising it.

And, of course, digital transformation and the introduction of innovative technologies. We have set ourselves an ambitious goal of incorporating AI into up to 50 percent of the corporate business processes.

Vladimir Putin: What does “improving the client experience at every stage of the journey” actually mean? What does “improving the client experience” mean?

Sergei Aleksandrovsky: We have broken down our clients’ travel experience step by step starting from the ticket search to the time the passenger is on board. There are certain areas where we can still do better. We identified these growth points and will work on them to achieve an average Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 75 percent. That is a very high benchmark. We are currently at around 72 percent, and each additional percentage point at this level is significantly harder to achieve. We will continue working towards this end.

In 2025, we also saw an increase in the number of minor passengers aged 2 to 12, partly due to the introduction of a standardised 50 percent discount. The number of children transported within the borders of the Russian Federation rose from 2 million to 2.4 million. After all, they are our favourite passengers.

Vladimir Putin: Do you think people were responsive to this?

Sergei Aleksandrovsky: Yes, they were. I believe it was the key factor behind the higher number of passengers in this age group.

In keeping with tradition, I would like to conclude my report with the flat-fare programme for 2025. Last year, with your approval, we made slight adjustments to the fare structure and expanded the number of cities in the Far East served by the programme. In total, 2.3 million passengers travelled under the flat-fare scheme, including 1.5 million on Far Eastern routes. This represents a 12 percent increase compared to 2024, once again reaffirming the programme’s effectiveness.

Vladimir Putin: Good.

Sergei Aleksandrovsky: I would also like to express my gratitude to Chairman of the Board of Directors Vitaly Savelyev and to the Minister of Transport, with whom we maintain very close working contact, both on strategic matters and even on day-to-day operational issues.

Vladimir Putin: Overall, the Aeroflot Group feels confident. Are you satisfied with last year’s results?

Sergei Aleksandrovsky: We always strive to improve, but overall, we are satisfied with how we concluded the year.

Vladimir Putin: This programme you mentioned, which focuses on identifying areas for improvement and analysing the entire work chain, from ticket search to onboard service, encompassing everything related to passengers, baggage, and service quality, is certainly very important. It is essential that this work continues.

Sergei Aleksandrovsky: Yes, it is an ongoing process, and passengers clearly appreciate these efforts.

<…>

The 968th Instructor-Research Mixed Aviation Regiment awarded honorary Guards designation

2026-04-08T11:08:52+04:00

The President signed Executive Order On Awarding an Honorary Designation to the 968^thInstructor-Research Mixed Aviation Regiment.

For mass heroism and bravery, fortitude and courage displayed by the regiment personnel during combat operations to defend the Fatherland and state interests in armed conflicts, the President awarded the honorary Guards designation to the 968^th Instructor-Research Mixed Aviation Regiment, which shall henceforth be referred to as the 968^th Guards Instructor-Research Mixed Aviation Regiment.

The 35th Combined Arms Red Banner Army awarded honorary Guards designation

2026-04-08T11:09:05+04:00

The President signed Executive Order On Awarding an Honorary Designation to the 35^th Combined Arms Red Banner Army.

For mass heroism and bravery, fortitude and courage displayed by the army personnel during combat operations to defend the Fatherland and state interests in armed conflicts, the President awarded the honorary Guards designation to the 35^th Combined Arms Red Banner Army, which shall henceforth be referred to as the 35^th Guards Combined Arms Red Banner Army.