Website of the President of Russia: All Publications

Greetings to the fifth Youth Environmental Forum-Festival The Arctic: The Ice Has Broken

2026-08-17T17:20:16+04:00

Vladimir Putin sent greetings to the participants and guests of the fifth Youth Environmental Forum-Festival “The Arctic: The Ice Has Broken,” which is taking place on August 17–22 in Naryan-Mar, Nenets Autonomous Area.

The message reads, in part:

“This event has brought to Naryan-Mar, the capital of the Nenets Autonomous Area, young activists who strive to contribute to the balance between economic activities and conservation, and to offer tangible support to the state, local officials, businesses and research organisations in the sustainable and careful economic development of Arctic territories, and in eliminating the accumulated environmental damage.

You and other like-minded members of the Clean Arctic project have collected over 22,000 tonnes of waste, reaching the most remote regions of the Nenets Autonomous Area, the Kola Peninsula, Chukotka, Yamal, Pomorye, the Krasnoyarsk Territory and Karelia. Thank you for your proactivity, personal involvement and responsible civic attitude.

I am confident that this forum-festival will broaden the horizons of your activities, help attract new supporters, and produce some future-oriented ideas that will be relevant and beneficial for our country.”

Congratulations to Russian national team on winning the first place in the combined team standings at the 2026 World Rhythmic Gymnastics Championships in Frankfurt am Main

2026-08-17T19:12:51+04:00

Vladimir Putin congratulated the Russian national team on taking the first place in the combined team standings at the 2026 World Rhythmic Gymnastics Championship in Frankfurt am Main, Germany: Maria Borisova, Sofia Ilteryakova, Agata Barekzay, Alisa Yeremeyeva, Arina Lavrenova, Anna Nikolayeva, Sofia Solonskaya, and Daria Melnik.

The message reads, in part:

“You honourably represented Russia at this season’s head competition, demonstrating thorough preparation for the event, artistry, skill and team spirit. You gave your coaches, teammates and devoted fans unforgettable moments of joy and triumph. Your victory has made a significant contribution to the remarkable traditions of Russian rhythmic gymnastics.”

Meeting with Nenets Autonomous Area Governor Irina Gekht

2026-08-17T18:04:24+04:00

The Governor reported to the President on the Nenets Autonomous Area’s socioeconomic development.

First of all, Irina Gekht thanked the President for signing an executive order on celebrating the region’s 100^th anniversary, noting that this decision inspired all people living in the region, from reindeer herders to oil industry workers. She said that the area, with its vast territory, is one of the key regions in Russia’s Arctic zone, despite the fact that its population is relatively small. In fact, this is where major oil and gas reserves are located, and only 34 percent of oil reserves and 2 percent of prospective natural gas deposits have been developed. Two new fields are expected to be launched this year: the Layavozhskoye field, which is a joint project by Gazprom and LUKOIL, and the Komandirshorskoye field, where LUKOIL will start producing oil in September. The regional government carries out social projects together with oil companies. For example, there is a project with Zarubezhneft on developing small-scale power generation.

Despite the economic challenges faced by the region and the entire country, all social commitments were met in 2025, including the priority objective to support special military operation participants. There are 14 support measures as set out in the Presidential Executive Order, as well as 38 additional financial measures to this effect. In addition, the Nenets Autonomous Area has been sponsoring and accompanying the Kamensk-Dnieprovsky District in the Zaporozhye Region, which lies on the line of contact. This included, among other things, buying generators for veterans in order to ensure that they have a steady power and water supply.

As for the Nenets Autonomous Area, the discussion focused on education, healthcare and social policy. Education accounts for about 24 percent of the regional budget, economic matters take up 54 percent, while healthcare and social policy have a 12-percent share in the regional economy. The region may have a diversified economy, but minerals and fossil fuels still account for over 80 percent, however, SMEs have been expanding their operations too. In the first six months of 2026, the industrial production grew by 2.5 percent. Irina Gekht went on to mention the Indiga deepwater port on Cape Rumyanichny as another major project with about 10 billion rubles in investment. This is a year-round port with a depth of over 20 metres. Considering its convenient location in a bay, it actually needs no icebreaker support. The project has been included in the comprehensive development plan.

Irina Gekht specified that reindeer breeding remains one of the key traditional industries. The Nenets Autonomous Area remains self-sufficient when it comes to meat supplies. The region provides 179 types of social benefits and plans to expand the scope to stimulate demographic growth. In particular, the plan is to increase maternity capital and student capital, and to open a multi-purpose family centre. There has been some progress in public healthcare development. The region is implementing a plan for opening more cultural centres, post offices and bakeries.

The President and the Governor also discussed transport logistics. The region relies on two modes of intra-regional transport: helicopters and Antonov An-2 aircraft. The concession agreement regarding the renovation of a runway in Naryan-Mar is in its drafting stage.

The Governor reported that last year brought a breakthrough in telecommunication infrastructure development. Remote villages are being connected to stable communication. There is a promising optical fibre communication line project for which Irina Gekht requested support as part of the area’s co-financing in order to complete the project within two or three years.

The Governor also asked the President for support in addressing the crucial issue of the Naryan-Mar – Usinsk motorway with a bridge across the Kuya River that has to be lifted during the flooding season, cutting the area off land-based transportation for six weeks. A project design has been prepared for a bridge and access roads that will cost around eight billion rubles. The region has allocated funds from the budget starting in 2029 but the funds are limited to 5.3 billion. Irina Gekht believes this strategic facility deserves support.

Finally, Ms Gekht reported on local historians’ initiative to promote Naryan-Mar for the title of the City of Labour Glory. The title was established to eternalise the heroic deeds of home front workers during the Great Patriotic War of 1941–1945. The Governor mentioned a remarkable story of reindeer transport battalions, when 700 reindeer-team drivers and 10,000 reindeer went to the front, to the Karelian Isthmus. Local women also built an airfield in Naryan-Mar. The White Sea Flotilla, which escorted lend-lease cargo, was also based there. The city produced reindeer meat and fish. All residents laboured for the benefit of the front. Vladimir Putin promised to review the submission.

Greetings to President of the Republic of Indonesia Prabowo Subianto

2026-08-16T18:26:43+04:00

Vladimir Putin sent a message of greetings to President of the Republic of Indonesia Prabowo Subianto on the occasion of the national holiday – the Republic’s Independence Day.

The message reads, in part:

“Your country has attained universally recognised achievements in the economic and social spheres and enjoys well‑deserved respect on the global stage.

Relations between Moscow and Jakarta are developing most successfully, as evidenced by our productive contacts with you. Undoubtedly, we will continue our constructive joint efforts to further expand our mutually beneficial partnership – both on a bilateral basis and within the framework of BRICS, the Russia-ASEAN Dialogue, and other international formats. I am confident that this will fully serve the interests of our friendly peoples and contribute to the strengthening of security and stability in the Asia-Pacific region and throughout the world.

I wish you robust health and every success in your state endeavours, and to all citizens of Indonesia – happiness and prosperity. And, naturally, I look forward to our meeting in Vladivostok in early September.”

Greetings to participants, organisers and guests of the International Sambo Tournament for Military Personnel

2026-08-15T17:08:12+04:00

Vladimir Putin sent greetings to participants, organisers and guests of the 1^st International Sambo Tournament for Military Personnel.

The message reads, in part:

“The genuine interest in this major sporting event among participants and numerous fans from across the globe is compelling evidence of sambo’s growing international popularity. Rightfully regarded as a national treasure of Russia, this martial art demands outstanding physical training, builds character, develops endurance and willpower, teaches quick decision-making, and instils respect for your opponents.

Ahead of you is intense and uncompromising competition, with fair and spectacular bouts and a wonderful opportunity to fully showcase your talent and skill. Obviously, events such as this also create valuable opportunities to develop professional and personal connections, while strengthening the bonds of military brotherhood and camaraderie. After all, your tournament’s motto is Friendship Through Sport.

I am confident that the International Sambo Tournament for Military Personnel will be organised to the highest standards, remembered for its moments of victory and triumph, and will lay the foundation for a lasting tradition.”

On August 18, Vladimir Putin will hold talks with President of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar Min Aung Hlaing

2026-08-15T17:01:31+04:00

On August 18, President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin will hold talks at the Kremlin with President of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar Min Aung Hlaing, who will be on an official visit to Russia.

The two leaders will discuss avenues for deepening Russia-Myanmar cooperation in various areas, as well as topical issues on the international and regional agendas.

There are plans to sign several bilateral documents.

Greetings to President of India Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi

2026-08-14T19:04:39+04:00

Vladimir Putin sent a message of greetings to President of India Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi on the occasion of India’s national holiday, Independence Day.

The message reads, in part:

“Your country is making remarkable progress in the economic, social, scientific and technological spheres, and rightfully commands considerable authority in the international arena.

Russia-India relations are developing successfully in the spirit of a particularly privileged strategic partnership. Moscow and New Delhi are engaged in fruitful cooperation across a wide range of areas and coordinate closely within the framework of the United Nations, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, BRICS, and other multilateral institutions.

I am confident that, through our joint efforts, we will continue to comprehensively strengthen the constructive Russia-India partnership for the benefit of our friendly peoples and in the interests of enhancing international security and stability.”

Greetings to Chairman of State Affairs of the DPRK Kim Jong-un

2026-08-14T18:31:48+04:00

Vladimir Putin extended his greetings to Chairman of State Affairs of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea Kim Jong-un on the country’s national holiday, Liberation Day.

The message reads, in part:

“This holiday symbolises the courage and resilience of Korean patriots and Red Army soldiers who fought side by side to liberate your country from Japanese colonial rule. It was in those harsh years that strong traditions of combat brotherhood and mutual assistance were forged, laying the foundations for the development of friendly, neighbourly ties between the Russian Federation and the DPRK.

Today, relations between Moscow and Pyongyang have reached an unprecedented level of comprehensive strategic partnership. Our countries are engaging in close cooperation across a wide range of areas and are coordinating their efforts to ensure regional security and stability.

I am confident that we will continue our constructive joint work on pressing issues on both the bilateral and international agendas – for the benefit of the Russian and Korean peoples, and in the interests of building a more just and truly democratic world order.”

Meeting with members of the Security Council

2026-08-14T17:40:20+04:00

Vladimir Putin chaired a meeting on current issues with members of the Security Council.

The discussion addressed the preservation of traditional spiritual and moral values in culture and the creative industries. Minister of Culture Olga Lyubimova delivered the keynote report.

The President also briefed the meeting participants on the results of the Pacific Fleet exercises he attended this week.

Taking part in the meeting were State Duma Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin, Deputy Chairman of the Security Council Dmitry Medvedev, Secretary of the Security Council Sergei Shoigu, Defence Minister Andrei Belousov, Director of the Federal Security Service Alexander Bortnikov, Director of the Foreign Intelligence Service Sergei Naryshkin, and First Deputy Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office Sergei Kiriyenko.

Greetings to President of Pakistan Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister of Pakistan Shehbaz Sharif

2026-08-13T21:27:45+04:00

Vladimir Putin sent greetings to President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan Shehbaz Sharif on the country’s national holiday, Independence Day.

The message reads, in part:

“Russia-Pakistan relations are developing very successfully. Moscow and Islamabad maintain fruitful cooperation in the political, trade, economic, humanitarian, and other spheres, and work closely together on important regional and global issues.

I am confident that we will continue our constructive joint efforts to further expand the full range of our cooperation for the benefit of the friendly peoples of Russia and Pakistan, and for strengthening international security and stability.”

Vladimir Putin spoke on the telephone with Great Patriotic War veteran Yevgeny Znamensky

2026-08-13T21:33:50+04:00

The President spoke on the telephone with veteran of the Great Patriotic War, participant in the Battles of Stalingrad and Berlin Yevgeny Znamensky, who turned 101 on August 13.

The President cordially congratulated Yevgeny Znamensky on his birthday, offering his best wishes.

Earlier, the President sent a message of congratulations, thanking Yevgeny Znamensky, in particular, for his feats of arms during the war and labour achievements in peaceful time, as well as for his contribution to the patriotic education of the younger generation of Russian citizens.

Birthday greetings to Great Patriotic War veteran Yevgeny Znamensky

2026-08-13T18:49:58+04:00

Vladimir Putin congratulated Yevgeny Znamensky on his birthday: on August 13, the Great Patriotic War veteran turned 101.

The message reads, in part:

“A man of exceptional fortitude, a frontline soldier, a courageous and stout-hearted individual, you trod a glorious combat path, taking part in the Battle of Stalingrad, the liberation of Europe from Nazism, and meeting the victorious spring in Berlin. Following the Great Patriotic War, you devoted many years to honest service for the good of the Motherland.

I would like to express my gratitude for your feats of arms and your labour achievements, for your profound sense of shared destiny with the Fatherland, and for your contribution to the patriotic education of the younger generation of Russian citizens.

I wish you good health and all the best.”

Greetings to participants, organisers and guests of the International Forum of Indigenous Peoples

2026-08-13T12:44:56+04:00

Vladimir Putin sent a message of greetings on the opening of the International Forum of Indigenous Peoples in Krasnoyarsk.

The message reads, in part:

“I consider your meeting a timely and much-needed initiative, and a significant contribution to strengthening humanitarian cooperation across Eurasia and beyond.

The preservation of native languages, unique cultures, and traditions of indigenous peoples is a matter of great importance on the global agenda – one that calls for joint efforts by government bodies and international organisations. I want to emphasise that Russia is fully committed to expanding constructive cooperation in this sphere with all interested partners.

Our country attaches great importance to supporting indigenous peoples. In close partnership with public organisations, volunteer groups, and national associations, we are working diligently to preserve the unique historical and spiritual heritage of indigenous communities, to improve their quality of life, and to address pressing socioeconomic challenges. Substantial projects are being implemented in the area of education, development and mentoring for the younger generation.

I am confident that your forum will be conducted in a creative and practical spirit and will help foster common approaches to the urgent challenges of our time.”

Greetings to employees and veteran workers of the Russian Television and Radio Broadcasting Network

2026-08-13T12:25:23+04:00

Vladimir Putin congratulated the employees and veteran workers of the Russian Television and Radio Broadcasting Network on its 25^th anniversary.

The message reads, in part:

“Over the years, your network has unified dozens of regional radio and television centres and built a team of highly skilled professionals to tackle demanding tasks of creating a modern production and technological framework for state-run television and radio networks, as well as upgrading and digitalising the industry-specific infrastructure.

Today, the world’s largest digital on-air television and radio network is in place largely owing to the RTRS. This network makes it possible to ensure high-quality and uninterrupted television and radio broadcasting across the entire territory of our country using advanced innovative technologies. And, of course, let me note in particular your significant contribution to creating a digital television network in Donbass and Novorossiya, and integrating our historical regions into Russia’s single information space.”

Meeting with Sakhalin Region Governor Valery Limarenko

2026-08-15T15:13:53+04:00

The head of the region reported to the President on the execution of his instructions and on the socioeconomic indicators.

Valery Limarenko began his report with instructions concerning assistance to the participants in the special military operation and their families. He spoke about the delivery of essential equipment requested by Sakhalin military units participating in the special military operation, the launch of a regional mortgage programme, under which families of more than 400 soldiers have obtained housing over the past two years, and the rehabilitation of 2,000 veterans.

The Governor also spoke about the creation of a memorial on the island of Shumshu, the site of the Soviet offensive in 1945. It was a fierce amphibious assault by Soviet forces that defeated the Japanese forces.

The discussion also touched on demographic issues. Valery Limarenko reported that the region’s birth rate ranks among the top ten in the country. The network of kindergartens and day-care nurseries is expanding, while the university has launched a child nannying course with an annual enrolment of 300 students. Several hundred major enterprises cover two-thirds of the cost of nannying services for their female employees. A range of services is also available to women with small children. The Governor touched upon a sensitive issue, noting that he personally meets with women seeking abortion due to difficult circumstances, seeing one or two such women almost every week. Women are being offered assistance in addressing the problems they face, and in two-thirds of cases, these meetings result in the birth of a child. As the Governor noted, the numbers are not big, but these are real lives that have been saved, this is genuine care for people. IVF services have also become available in the region. As a result of these and other measures, the region’s population has grown for the second year in a row, adding 2,000 people annually.

Valery Limarenko noted that Sakhalin had become an increasingly comfortable place for living, as the region ranks fifth nationally in terms of quality of life, following such highly-developed regions as Moscow, St Petersburg, Tyumen, and Tatarstan. This ranking takes into account a wide range of metrics, including healthcare, education, and other aspects of quality of life. Over the past five years, the region has built or modernised 49 healthcare facilities, 21 paramedic centres, 11 ambulatory care clinics, and three outpatient clinics, including two for children, as well as a new section of the central polyclinic, a modern emergency medical care facility, a consultative and diagnostic centre, and a new wing of the regional rehabilitation centre. This centre has a prosthetics department with modern equipment. Patients recovering from complex spinal surgeries and leg injuries are learning to walk with prostheses and undergoing comprehensive rehabilitation. The Governor also personally presents vehicles to servicemen who have lost limbs, helping them regain their independence and return to driving.

Revisiting the topic of support for participants in the special military operation, the Governor said that representatives of the region had been visiting the front since the very first day. A Mothers’ Watch initiative has been launched, trips are being organised for soldiers’ mothers, and parcels, humanitarian aid, and other supplies are being sent to the front on a regular basis. The region has launched its own Time of Heroes programme for returning personnel: they undergo professional retraining and are already working in municipal administrations and regional agencies.

The President noted that the region’s economy remains stable. The Governor emphasised that, despite certain challenges, all social commitments are fully funded. Numerous construction projects are being implemented through concession agreements, including boiler houses, water supply facilities, infrastructure projects, and polyclinics. The region is among the top five in the country in terms of wages and purchasing power.

Vladimir Putin visited Iturup island

2026-08-15T15:13:24+04:00

Accompanied by Governor of the Sakhalin Region Valery Limarenko, the President visited the Yasny fish processing complex, where he learned about the enterprise’s operations and had a conversation with the plant’s staff.

After that, the President toured the Kurilsk Central District Hospital. The healthcare facility offers round-the-clock inpatient and outpatient care, as well as emergency medical care and urgent treatment to residents of the Sakhalin Region’s Kurilsky District.

The next stop was the Hero of Russia Eduard Norpolov Secondary General School, where the President inspected the gym, classrooms and the school museum, and also talked with the students.

In conclusion of his working trip, Vladimir Putin held a meeting with Governor of the Sakhalin Region Valery Limarenko.

Meeting on ensuring the security of Russia’s eastern borders

2026-08-15T15:12:29+04:00

The meeting was attended by Commander of the Pacific Fleet Viktor Liina, Head of the Federal Security Service’s Border Directorate for the Sakhalin Region Sergei Makhorin, and Acting Commander of the 68^th Guards Army Corps of the Defence Ministry Forces Alexei Shvedov.

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Good afternoon, comrades,

During yesterday’s military exercises and before the drills we discussed with the fleet’s commander and his team not only the objectives for yesterday’s exercises, but also the recent developments within your area of responsibility. It’s clear that the main objectives are being met in the course of the special military operation, but our responsibility is to ensure the security of the Russian state across all borders and territories.

This is a challenging territory. Yesterday, the commander reviewed the situation in the region, and I fully agree with his assessment. I would like to hear your reports and proposals on additional measures for enabling you and your personnel to be as effective as possible in delivering on our shared objectives.

Let us begin our work.

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Pacific Fleet drills

2026-08-15T15:11:49+04:00

The Supreme Commander-in-Chief took part in the final stage of the Pacific Fleet drills on board the Guards missile cruiser Varyag. The President also received a report from Commander of the Pacific Fleet Viktor Liina.

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Mr Liina, comrades,

I would like to thank the Commander for his detailed reports. The purpose of events like the one we are discussing right now, I mean the military exercises, is not only to ensure the fleet’s combat readiness, but also to defend our national interests and ensue its security in the Asia-Pacific region in general. These initiatives contribute to perfecting Russia’s military presence in this region in all its aspects. Among other things, we must benefit from the experience acquired during the special military operation in everything we do here, as we discussed with the commander on our way to the ship.

You mentioned the battlefield engagement of the Pacific Fleet’s naval infantry, i.e., the 155^th Brigade, which is now the 55^th Naval Infantry Division. I would like to note that the Pacific Fleet’s naval infantry can fulfil any combat mission it receives. There is no task it cannot shoulder. Its personnel are bold, professional and heroic in their actions. As for the fleet, it has also been effective in performing its mission within its area of responsibility. These objectives are becoming increasingly important, which is attributable, among other things, to the current situation in the region. The Commander has just described it in his report.

The region is unfortunately becoming increasingly prone to conflict, with NATO seeking to gain a foothold here and the emergence of new military and political blocs. There are efforts and plans to deploy new weapons systems here, which creates threats for our country.

There is growing tension in the neighbouring Arctic zone, as has been mentioned already, which relates to operating the Northern Sea Route. Russia has always upheld its unwavering commitment and reaffirms its readiness to work with others in the Arctic to benefit from the advantages the Northern Sea Route has to offer. Of course, this must be done in keeping with the international law of the sea. Countries that want and are interested in working with us primarily include our friends: China, India, and other countries. They have been discussing these questions with us, and we will definitely welcome opportunities for working with our friends, as well as all countries willing to take part in this instrumental and extremely promising initiative to expand global logistics.

As we have already heard, the Asia-Pacific region is facing a rather challenging environment and there are quite a few challenges it faces. I will not go beyond saying that we would like to clarify the position of Japan, which has already been mentioned today. It is our neighbour, a country which used the developments in Ukraine as a pretext for imposing unprovoked sanctions on Russia without trying to understand what had caused this conflict. Moreover, it is the first time that Japan has ranked Russia among the main threat sources in its latest military doctrines. I would like to note that we have not threatened Japan in any way. We do not have any claims. It is Japan which has territorial claims against our country – I am referring to the issue concerning the Kuril Islands.

However, this was enshrined in international documents as a post-WWII reality. Even then, Russia was willing to find a solution to conclude a peace treaty with Japan.

Let me remind you that in the mid-1950s, the Soviet Union signed a declaration with Japan that paved the way for a peace treaty. Japan also signed the declaration but later withdrew from it. The Soviet Union did the same, but the new Russia responded to the Japanese government’s request and renewed – again, at Japan’s request – the dialogue to seek ways to reach a peace treaty. It was initially discussed that the work would be based on the declaration I have just mentioned.

I should confirm that at the time, we established constructive relations with several high-level Japanese officials, including former prime minister Shinzo Abe, who tragically died. He made great efforts to bring Japan and Russia, as well as our positions, closer. But now, unfortunately, we can see some changes in our neighbour’s position – I want to stress, changes that have not been provoked by anything.

Therefore, the Commander’s proposal regarding the development of the Pacific Fleet and the improvement of its capabilities and potential will be supported. It is important to consider all matters related to the fulfilment of these proposals. Corresponding instructions will be given to the Defence Ministry and the Russian Government. It is necessary to designate responsible parties and sources of funding.

But I want to stress that Russia is ready to cooperate with all of its neighbours, including Japan and other states in the region. I know that the Pacific Fleet holds regular joint exercises. Please continue this work.

There is another problem I wanted to draw your attention to. The Commander has just mentioned the escorting of our ships in the Pacific Fleet’s area of responsibility. I would like to note the recent decisions of the European Union. We can see that the officials of some countries are attempting to restrict the movement of our economic operators’ vessels by peaceful means in violation of International Maritime Law, but recently it occurred to them that they can seize our vessels and sell our looted property. This is nothing short of piracy and plunder. If this happens, we will have to reciprocate – not necessarily in the waters where they plan to raid our own ships but anywhere we consider necessary or reasonable, including in the Pacific Fleet’s area of responsibility.

I would like to draw your attention to this. The Defence Ministry has received corresponding instructions and I know that they have been conveyed to the command of the Pacific Fleet. Please report your proposals on this matter.

In conclusion, I would like to stress once again that Russia is strengthening its security in general and in specific regions. It is always open to finding a compromise that would be acceptable to all of our neighbours and partners. We are open to it, as long as mutual interests are taken into consideration.

Mr Liina, please.

Commander of the Pacific Fleet Viktor Liina: Comrade Supreme Commander-in-Chief,

The forces and formations of the Pacific Fleet maintain a constant state of combat readiness to fulfil their assigned missions and are fully capable of ensuring the security of the Russian Federation in the Asia-Pacific region.

The military and political situation in the region is tense and continues to demonstrate a steady trend towards increasing complexity. The principal drivers of heightened military and political tension are the destructive activities of Western states aimed at reconfiguring the security architecture in the Asia-Pacific region, the build‑up of their forward military presence, as well as the establishment of new Western‑controlled military and political alliances. Specifically, I refer to the AUKUS bloc and the Trilateral Pact.

At present, similar new alliances are being formed, namely JAPHUS, QUAD and AJUS. In reality, these military and political alliances constitute elements of NATO, merely presented under a different guise. They are conducting joint operational and combat training exercises, and both their frequency and scale are consistently increasing. There is a discernible trend towards drawing NATO’s military and political resources into the Asia-Pacific region’s policy. The deteriorating situation within the fleet’s operational area is further corroborated by the increasingly aggressive actions of Japan’s military and political leadership. For instance, on July 4, a White Paper was published, which sets out the course of the military and political leadership towards overt militarisation. Russia is identified as one of Japan’s threats. It is further stated therein that military expenditure will be increased to 2 percent, and Japan’s Minister of Defence has openly advocated the advisability of abolishing The Three Non‑Nuclear Principles – a development which cannot be permitted in our region. Hearings are also underway concerning amendments to Article 9 of the Constitution and the establishment of Japan’s armed forces.

A significant concern is the threat posed by the West’s potential blockade of Russia’s maritime trade, with the aim of inflicting maximum economic damage. It is known that, as part of the 21^st package of anti‑Russia sanctions, the European Union has lifted the previously imposed ban on the sale of Russian hydrocarbons in EU member states. Thus, the countries of the union are now authorised to adopt legislative decisions at the national level regarding the sale of hydrocarbons from vessels detained as part of the so‑called Russian shadow fleet. The European Union is striving to provide legal justification for its actions, which run counter to international norms.

Comrade Supreme Commander‑in‑Chief, acting pursuant to your instruction, we have conducted a comprehensive analysis of maritime traffic in the Asia-Pacific region; we are aware of the routes, the cargoes being transported, and the ownership of each vessel. Between April 24 and August 6, 2026, a total of 1,001 vessels transited the exclusive economic zone of the Russian Federation along the islands of the South Kuril chain alone. Of these, 379 sailed under the flags of unfriendly states, including 273 bulk carriers and 71 tankers, among which were 26 vessels from the United Kingdom and 9 from France.

Simultaneously, Western states are actively enlisting vessels flying the flags of third countries to transport cargo in their interests. In essence, this constitutes their own shadow fleet. We possess the necessary forces to inspect and detain vessels belonging to unfriendly states and their shadow fleet; inter‑agency coordination has been established, and we stand ready to execute these tasks.

This concludes my report.

Vladimir Putin: Thank you.

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Trip to Sakhalin Region. Pacific Fleet drills

2026-08-15T15:10:09+04:00

Vladimir Putin visited the Sakhalin Region, where he took part in the final stage of the Pacific Fleet drills on board the missile cruiser Varyag. The Supreme Commander-in-Chief also received a report from Commander of the Pacific Fleet Viktor Liina and inspected the vessel. The President also held a meeting on ensuring the security of Russia’s eastern borders.

As part of his working trip to the Sakhalin Region, the head of state also visited the island of Iturup, where he toured the Yasny fish processing complex, the Kurilsk Central District Hospital, and Hero of Russia Eduard Norpolov Secondary School.

Vladimir Putin also held a separate meeting with Governor of the Sakhalin Region Valery Limarenko.

President of Russia Vladimir Putin has arrived in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk to take part in the final stage of the ongoing Russian Pacific Fleet drills

2026-08-15T15:10:41+04:00