The President suggested dedicating the meeting to discussing the issues that are fundamental to human life: socioeconomic matters such as the economy, healthcare, education, and various social benefits.
Denis Pushilin began his report by expressing gratitude of all the republic’s residents for the President’s ongoing and active support, the positive outcomes of which are already evident: people are returning and feeling more secure. As the front lines recede, Donbass is gradually moving toward a peaceful path.
The Head of the Republic reported significant progress in healthcare. A state-of-the-art perinatal centre has been built in Donetsk, where the thousandth child has already been born. In Mariupol, a regional vascular centre has been launched, providing high-tech care to 1,600 patients, including civilians and wounded participants in the special military operation. Last year, ten rural paramedic centres were opened in various municipalities, with plans to open another 18 in 2025.
The discussion also covered topics such as general education and preschool institutions, the 28.4 percent increase in budget revenues last year compared to 2023, and improvements in the housing situation. In Mariupol, a total of 71 compensation houses are planned, with 64 already completed, providing 4,789 apartments.
Vladimir Putin emphasised that when constructing new housing developments, people should receive homes within their current districts, as they are familiar with the area, including the local social institutions. Denis Pushilin confirmed that this issue remains a priority.
Denis Pushilin noted that in 2025, construction will expand to the Donetsk-Makeyevka agglomeration, as the front line has moved further back. Some areas have endured long periods of bombardment, resulting in significant damage. The experience gained from Mariupol is proving valuable. According to the regional head, construction cranes are increasingly visible in Donetsk, Makeyevka, and other localities.
According to Denis Pushilin, water supply is one of the most pressing challenges. He recalled the water blockade imposed by the Ukrainian regime and the damage to hydraulic structures. To address this, a pipeline from the Don River has been constructed, along with reserve reservoirs within the republic, which currently cover about 50 percent of the water needed. However, the infrastructure is severely outdated. Local utility workers are being supported by emergency teams from Moscow, working together to resolve up to 2,000 accidents weekly. An operational headquarters has been set up, pooling all available resources, with volunteers also lending a hand. For those with limited mobility, volunteers help carry water to the upper floors.
Denis Pushilin also spoke about the efforts to engage with the youth, describing them as unique in Donbass. Having grown up amidst conflict, these young people possess a distinct connection to their land and have developed their own values. He outlined plans to establish modular youth centres across the republic's municipalities – spaces where young people can exchange experience, participate in patriotic education, and access sports facilities. Although safety remains a concern in some areas, there is still a strong demand for sports grounds and playgrounds.
In response to the President’s question, Denis Pushilin explained how the pension issue is being addressed. This is a common challenge in the liberated territories, where people have lost or had their documents destroyed, impacting the calculation of their work experience and pensions. An Interdepartmental Commission is actively working on the matter and has already handled over 2,300 such appeals.