Website of the President of Russia: President: Transcripts

Popular Front’s Everything for Victory! forum

2026-07-13T21:56:46+04:00

Vladimir Putin attended the Everything for Victory! forum organised by the Russian Popular Front public movement, and presented awards to the winners of the Popular Front’s prize.

The President presented awards to security guards Anatoly Vasilchenko and Viktor Taraskin for assisting students in Starobelsk following a terrorist attack by the Ukrainian Armed Forces. He also awarded Shamil Ustarbekov for saving people during a flash flood in Daghestan and the Pojiarskas family from the Amur Region for establishing a group of volunteers to assist service personnel taking part in the special military operation.

Ahead of the awards ceremony, held on the territory of the Rossiya National Centre, Vladimir Putin viewed an exhibition of projects of the Russian Popular Front. Head of the Front’s Executive Committee Mikhail Kuznetsov acted as guide.

The President was shown inventions of the Kulibin Club, an association of enterprises of the people’s defence industry, briefed on the Front’s assistance to people in Russian border regions and liberated territories. The President also inspected stands showcasing the rehabilitation of veterans of the special military operation, as well as other exhibits highlighting mobile medicine and programmes for training drone operators.

First Deputy Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office Sergei Kiriyenko, Minister of Industry and Trade Anton Alikhanov, and Deputy Defence Minister Alexei Krivoruchko attended the forum along with the President.

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Address at the Everything for Victory! awards ceremony

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Thank you very much for such a warm welcome.

For my part, I would like to say that when the Russian Popular Front was established 15 years ago, it was by no means a spontaneous decision. Today, as we mark its 15^th anniversary, I can say with confidence that it has fully justified its creation. First and foremost, it has brought together people like you. I want to express my deepest gratitude for everything you do.

Over the past 15 years – not just during the years of the special military operation, which is highly important, and I will certainly mention it as well – you have always been at the forefront of addressing the country’s challenges. You have always been able to identify where attention should be focused in order to help specific people. Ultimately, that means helping the entire country and the Russian state as a whole.

This direct feedback from people is invaluable for every level of government and for the country. As I understand it, you are currently monitoring the implementation of 552 presidential instructions. These are not abstract discussions. Where do presidential instructions come from? They emerge from the Direct Line with citizens. Of course, these direct lines are carefully prepared and supported by large teams, but they nevertheless represent a live dialogue with the people.

These instructions do not appear out of nowhere. They arise directly from people’s concerns – from the problems they face in their daily lives and the challenges they are striving to overcome. That is where they come from. And what are you doing? You are working to help people directly.

Even their requests that later become instructions issued by the head of state are not always easy to implement within such a vast administrative system. As you know, this problem is not unique to Russia – it is a challenge faced by governments everywhere in the world. But nowhere else is there an organisation like yours – the Russian Popular Front.

You are working in all the most important areas. Let us take healthcare, for example: thanks to your efforts, solutions are being found to the problems faced by children suffering from diabetes. In education, you are drawing attention to important aspects of this extremely important field – and I apologise for the repetition.

What could be more important than a child’s soul? What could be more important than shaping a child’s outlook on life, their attitude towards society and towards other people? What could be more important than fostering respect among the younger generation for their parents and grandparents, and for everything they have done throughout their lives – for them, for their future children and for their grandchildren?

What could be more important than all of this for preserving, strengthening and further developing the Russian state? Nothing. And this is what you are doing.

Finally, during the special military operation, you are working directly with people – with our service members and with their families. What could be more important than this? Nothing. Today, there is nothing more important. And this is what you are doing.

You know, people often ask: how is it that the entire Russophobic, aggressive part of the so-called collective West is fighting against us, while we are developing our economy, strengthening our financial system, improving our Armed Forces, achieving new results in our defence industry, and moving forward – with our service members moving forward? How is this possible?

It is possible, among other things, thanks to your efforts. You have brought together more than 20 million people, citizens of the Russian Federation, around your work, and you have collected – not from the state, but from citizens who voluntarily contributed because they trust you – almost 70 billion rubles for the special military operation. That is how it is possible. That is why victory will undoubtedly be ours.

I thank you and I will be pleased to take part in the ceremony honouring the awardees of the Russian Popular Front.

Thank you.

United Russia Party Congress

2026-06-28T20:23:36+04:00

Vladimir Putin took part in the 23^rd congress of the United Russia party.

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Mr Medvedev, delegates, guests of the congress, friends.

The congress of United Russia, our leading political party, is taking place at a difficult time – it would be safe to say that it is a pivotal moment for our country and a period of radical and systemic transformation of the entire world.

We see that regional conflicts are multiplying, and new artificial obstacles for normal, mutually beneficial cooperation between states and peoples are emerging: this applies to the economy, technology, science, and even culture and sports, and humanitarian cooperation, in general.

At the same time, without exaggeration, Russia is experiencing unprecedented pressure from the Western elites. They are unable to inflict a strategic defeat on us or win a victory on the battlefield; their attempts to destabilise the political situation and sow internal unrest are failing too. Consequently, they keep encouraging the Kiev regime, which they have chosen as a battering ram in their struggle against Russia, without any sympathy for the Ukrainian people. The regime is retreating along the entire contact line hence its recent terrorist activities. How else can one describe targeted attacks on civilians and civilian facilities, and practically open recruitment of renegades within our country to carry out sabotage and terrorist attacks?

The West prefers to turn a blind eye and ignore this while imposing new unlawful – I want to stress this – sanctions against us.

Once again, Russia is confidently repelling any attempts to deter our progress. We have sufficient resources, means, and political will, and nobody should doubt that. (Applause.)

Yes, we see and realise our problems – we also respond to them. We will absolutely ensure the security of our country and our citizens, and the inviolability of Russia’s borders for decades ahead. This is our ultimate goal. We will certainly handle all the challenges we are facing today, including terrorist attacks on our territory and our infrastructure.

We will also solve any domestic development issues – primarily demographic issues, the preservation of our traditional values, and improving the quality of life and living standards in all the regions of our immense country.

We will elevate the Russian economy to a completely new technological level for all the essential industries.

We will continue building housing and roads, create new modern workplaces with high wages, support national businesses and advanced industries that guarantee Russia’s sovereignty and leadership.

Of course, we are adjusting some of these plans based on the current situation. All strategically significant development programmes will be fulfilled completely. The state will fulfill all social obligations without fail. (Applause.)

We are going through a challenging stage but it is teaching us a great lesson. We have fully realised what it means to be a Russian citizen and the significance of true patriotism.

I want to say a heartfelt thank you to our soldiers, officers and volunteers, doctors and teachers, first responders, drivers, engineers, and manual workers. (Applause.) To every person who, despite the risks, continues to perform their duty courageously and honestly, serving the Motherland.

It is thanks to these people and the entire nation that Russia stands firmly on its feet, as the saying goes, claims its fundamental, core interests, and is willing to fight for them, for our future, lifestyle, our sovereign beliefs, customs and traditions.

Russia has always been strong and has always won thanks to the unity of its people. It is this internal unity that haunts some of our foes. As I have already mentioned, they would like to shake, undermine, and question it. They have never succeeded in doing this. They will not succeed now. (Applause.)

Today, the entire nation supports our heroes on the front lines, believes in our Army and Navy, and it is the duty of United Russia to do everything it takes for the victory.

The party keeps in touch with combat units of the Armed Forces, defence factories, and with the mass volunteer movement. You help the residents of Donbass and Novorossiya, Crimea, Sevastopol and our border regions; you support the families of our defenders and, of course, the veterans themselves.

We definitely need to continue to create all necessary conditions so that such people – and they are, as I have said on numerous occassions, the true elite of Russia – can continue to serve the country in the civil sphere, politics, the economy, and in state and municipal administration. As we agreed at the previous congress, extensive work is already underway.

Many party members, including those who have held high posts in government and business structures, have volunteered to go to the front, and frontline heroes are joining your ranks, winning preliminary elections and running for office at all levels. I see that they are here, so let’s give them a round of applause once again. (Applause.)

Colleagues.

In September, the ninth convocation of the State Duma will be formed. In many regions, large-scale election campaigns for legislative and representative authorities will also take place, and their composition will be updated.

The elections will be held within the established timeframe, in strict correspondence with the law, and all measures will be taken to ensure the safety of election commission members, candidates, observers, and electors, as well as to protect the results of the people’s vote from any attempts at external influence or manipulation. The necessary instructions in this regard have been formulated and will certainly be issued.

I am certain that competition will be open and honest – after all, our people’s trust in our democratic institutions constitutes the essential condition of our society’s stability and unity.

The electoral process is a test of strength for our political system and an immensely important step for the country’s development, as well as the strengthening of its stability and public accord.

So many things here depend on the substantive and constructive election campaigns by our parliamentary parties, especially United Russia.

It is a great honour and enormous responsibility to earn the status of a leading party and a pillar of the modern Russian state. I want to emphasise once again that this level of trust from the nation is invaluable – and it doesn’t emerge out of nowhere. You know very well that our people can see everything. They know that United Russia supporters have never been populists; they do not chase ratings by giving empty and unfeasible promises.

I want to thank you for this firm stance, your sizable contribution to the country’s development, and for your extensive work in parliamentary authorities and the executive system. (Applause.) Please keep gaining pace – in all sectors and areas, standing by our citizens.

United Russia has initiated some new measures to protect our military heroes and their families. There are major social and economic projects underway. The regions benefit from financial support, including thanks to the recent decision to postpone budget loan payments.

The party does a great deal for the education system and our teaching community. There is a large-scale programme for school renovation and construction, as well as additional payments to class managers, and the expansion of the nursery and kindergarten network.

Today, I also want to support another initiative by United Russia, which I consider highly relevant. This initiative concerns the recognition of a special status of teachers in our country. I want to note: the establishment of such a status should not be a mere formality. With this status comes additional support and new career opportunities for those who have dedicated their lives to one of the most respected professions – educating future generations. Corresponding documents to this effect will be signed, by all means.

Colleagues,

Since its establishment, United Russia has been loyal to its mission of serving the Motherland and people, upholding the values of civil solidarity, mutual assistance, and genuine national unity. I would like to reiterate, this has always been vital for us, especially in this era of global changes and historical challenges.

This year has been declared the Year of Unity of the Peoples of Russia, which we will strengthen and preserve. The very name of United Russia means that it is destined to protect the identity, traditions, culture, and languages of both the Russian people and all of Russia’s indigenous peoples from any attempts at aggression, expansion, or enslavement, no matter how they are presented or where they come from. Ensuring the security of our society and preserving the ethno-cultural harmony that has developed in Russia is one of our key objectives.

One of the topics that will certainly be on the agenda of the election campaign is the protection of our traditional values, which I have already mentioned, and the parliamentary parties have common approaches to this matter.

It is obvious to all state-minded politicians that relying on traditional values is a solid ideological foundation that unites Russian society. However, such unity can only be built on freedom, based on one's own customs, culture, and history. These traditions emphasise that a person cannot be free if its people and country are not free. In this sense, human freedom and Russia's sovereignty are equivalent and identical concepts.

Our common goal is to ensure that the historical memory of our people and the Russian worldview, in all its political diversity and originality, serve the progress of our country and consolidate its internal strength. This is the key to the stability of our party system, our democracy, people power, and ultimately the entire state and its sovereignty.

I believe that all the participants in the election campaign should remember about their responsibility to the people and the state, and that social justice and equality of opportunities and responsibilities in the face of challenges are prerequisites for national unity.

Friends,

This year, United Russia marks its 25th anniversary. The quarter of a century has been quite eventful, with major, historic events and breakthroughs. Most importantly, our nation has become more united in its aspiration and will to revive the country, its capabilities and growth prospects, and to boost its strength.

I will repeat, Russia can only be a strong and independent power. It’s this or no Russia at all. You see that if only we show any weakness, the others immediately stop reckoning with Russia and start using the language of power – testing our boundaries and wishing to weaken us no matter what, eliminate us as a global factor that has always stood in the way of evil. Nobody has ever succeeded – they can’t succeed now or ever in the future.

I believe that during this new election campaign, all parties and candidates – even in the midst of most heated debates – will stand together for the stronger unity of our nation and will never put the country’s unity at risk. United Russia will once again demonstrate leadership in this election competition and consistently align its steps with public opinion, in a direct and trusted dialogue.

In fact, it is important to spend less time in offices and messengers and instead get out on the ground, as they say – meet with the public, learn the meticulous details about their daily problems and, of course, with greatest attention process the millions of suggestions, initiatives and directives that come in under the United Russia People’s Programme. They are to be fulfilled by those nominated and supported by the party in the upcoming elections.

There will be many young people among United Russia candidates representing the remarkable future-defining generation. We have every right to be proud of Russian youth. They are ambitious, modern, smart and talented young men and women who love their Motherland wholeheartedly. (Applause.)

I would like to use this opportunity and offer greetings to our younger comrades and associates on Youth Day that was marked yesterday. (Applause.) I am convinced they will perform admirably both during the election campaign and in their future work, proving their sincere loyalty to Russia and our principles.

Patriotic solidarity, well-coordinated teamwork, professionalism, integrity and attention to the people constitute the ideological foundation of United Russia and its biggest and indisputable advantage.

I have very good and constructive working relations with all the parties represented in the Russian parliament. Well, of course, I was involved in the establishment of United Russia. I want to wish this congress success and to wish the party good luck in the elections.

Thank you very much.

Meeting with graduates of military academies

2026-06-23T21:26:24+04:00

Following the official ceremony in the St George Hall of the Grand Kremlin Palace, Vladimir Putin had an informal meeting with graduates of military academies.

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President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Once again, congratulations on your graduation. All the very best to you. Take care of yourselves, take care of your country, and look after the people entrusted to you.

Remark: <…> NATO countries have allowed for launching drones from their territory at our facilities. Do they even realise the consequences?

Vladimir Putin: Apparently not – though there is growing unease within their societies, and those forces that do not want confrontation, that publicly call for building relations with our country, are gaining ground.

Look at what is happening in Germany. All the political forces that advocate aggression against Russia, that push for escalation and armed conflict – their ratings are plummeting. Every party that champions that path is seeing its support steadily decline.

Conversely, those who want to restore normal relations with us, to stop this endless drive for a strategic defeat of Russia, are on the rise. All those who want normal relations with us. I think it will happen; it will eventually work out.

They have not yet gone so far as to launch anything from their own territory; they understand that would invite a retaliatory strike. I think everyone realises that – or ought to – and so they are doing everything they can to keep their distance. When Ukrainian drones go astray into the Baltic states, for example, they do not point the finger at Moscow. They admit they are Ukrainian: a mistake, a system glitch, diverted by electronic warfare, something along those lines. They have not crossed that line yet, though they do host defence production facilities. And of course, weapons are still flowing into the combat zone in vast quantities.

By the way, you are an experienced man, Colonel, far more experienced than these very young lieutenants, and you certainly know that they always point the finger at us while they keep doing that.

If you noticed, it was no coincidence that I made a small remark. Did you notice? When I turned the page? Because just before I came here, practically in this very hall, I had finished writing these notes. We have always, at virtually every stage, been provoked, provoked, and provoked. As soon as we began defending our interests, the response was: “Look, Russia is being aggressive.” And then they immediately proceeded with everything they had originally planned.

I would also ask that this story, this account, be made available to the media.

Before World War II, the Soviet Union did everything possible to prevent the conflict. It proposed an alliance to all the European powers against the aggressive Nazi regime in Germany. But these proposals were rejected, and those same countries began signing agreements with Hitler themselves.

Who signed the agreement in 1938? Those same Western countries: France and Great Britain. The British Prime Minister returned to London, stepped off the airplane waving the agreement and shouting, “I have brought you peace.” Though, to be fair, there were sensible people in Great Britain who said, “Now war is inevitable.” And that is exactly what happened.

After that, they turned against the Soviet Union, and at the same time Nazi Germany began accusing the Soviet Union of allegedly preparing an attack and planning aggression. It was nonsense. Yet these accusations continued, and unfortunately, they continue to this day.

I have spoken about this many times, and you understand it well. A coup d’etat was staged in Ukraine, bringing to power a frenzied anti-Russia regime. Then military operations began: first they began fighting in Donbass, using aircraft, tanks, artillery, and other weapons against what was essentially a civilian population.

For eight years we’ve been patient, trying to reach agreements with them time and time again. Then, they openly stated that they would not seek a peaceful settlement and would not implement the Minsk agreements. We were forced to stand up for the people living there – people who consider themselves Russians, who consider themselves part of the Russian world, for whom Russian is their native language, and who feel themselves to be part of this shared history. All of this ultimately led us to do what we did.

And now, those who have come from the front know perfectly well that our soldiers are pressing forward, advancing along the entire line of contact. Everywhere. There is not a single area where the opposite is true. These drone attacks, these strikes on civilian infrastructure – what is the purpose? The purpose is to destabilise society. With the entire West working on their side, with a massive flow of drones being supplied, the objective is to create uncertainty regarding the actions of the Russian Armed Forces. Meanwhile, they ignore what is actually happening on the frontline. Our troops are advancing every single day.

And we will reach the point we have set for ourselves

Remark: We will help.

Vladimir Putin: I have no doubt about that. None at all.

Remark: What about the letter comrade Zelensky sent you back then – the one you called “that piece of paper” at the St Petersburg Economic Forum – does that not create any prerequisites for negotiations?

Vladimir Putin: No, such overtures do not create any prerequisites. If anything, they create conflict potential. So he sent me that piece of paper. They keep saying, “We want personal meetings, we want a face-to-face meeting.” So what? Three days later, a strike on Starobelsk. What was that about? Is it their idea of prerequisites for personal meetings and negotiations?

And then – you probably know this, but if you do not, I will tell you – their understanding of the line of contact is still very different. Our troops are now practically taking the last parts of Konstantinovka. Well, there are still some people hiding in basements, shooting back. They call it a grey zone. Wonderful. A grey zone.

We told them back in 2022: leave Donbass. People do not want to live with you. They held a referendum, they declared their own sovereign state – in full accordance with the UN Charter. Article 1 of the UN Charter states: “All peoples have the right of self-determination.” The people living in Donbass, in the Donetsk Republic, in the Lugansk Republic, exercised that right granted to them by international law, by the UN Charter, and declared independence. They had every right to do so.

And after that, did they have the right to conclude a treaty with us? Yes. And they did. Our parliament ratified it, and we were under the obligation to help them. We did. There are no violations whatsoever – it is just that no one wants to notice. Do you see? No one.

No one notices what is in our country’s interests – because no one needs it except you and me. But we do.

Remark: Yes sir!

Vladimir Putin: Thank you, guys. All the best.

Presenting Hero of Labour medals and Russian Federation National Awards

2026-06-12T19:42:11+04:00

By tradition, on Russia Day, the President presented the gold medals of the Hero of Labour of the Russian Federation and the 2025 Russian Federation National Awards in science and technology, literature and the arts, for outstanding achievements in human rights and charity work, in the Grand Kremlin Palace’s St George’s Hall.

Following the ceremony, the President had brief conversation with winners of the National Awards and Heroes of Labour of the Russian Federation.

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President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Friends, colleagues, congratulations on Russia Day!

We are celebrating this holiday with warmth and affection for our Motherland, with pride for grand achievements in industry and military service by many generations of our ancestors, with respect for key events in Russian history and, of course, with understanding that all stages in our state’s evolution over 1,000 years form a single journey.

A deep, personal feeling for Russia is part of our mentality. For Russian people, solidarity and patriotism have always been the greatest values that helped us overcome any difficulties, defeat enemies, build our country, and preserve our historical and cultural legacy.

Friends,

A sincere sense of responsibility for our Fatherland is a feeling known to every one of us. And for participants in the special military operation, this is a solid spiritual support, much like the support our heroes receive from the entire Russian nation and our entire society.

We all share the same goals. Courage and perseverance in achieving these goals are qualities possessed by everyone receiving high honours today.

First, let me name the recipients of the Hero of Labour title.

Alexander Batalin has been the director of the well-known Fiolent plant in Simferopol for 40 years. Under his management, this enterprise has been upholding high standards of its own research and design traditions, producing sought-after civilian and dual-use goods, as well as goods for state defence orders.

For Leonid Bobe, developing reliable life support systems for manned spacecraft is a life’s work. Successfully deployed at the International Space Station, his designs affirm the leading positions of Russian science.

Reliability and responsibility are the hallmarks of Vladimir Danilov, a mining works operator at Uralkali. He generously shares a wealth of experience he has gained with young professionals.

Alexander Kolesnichenko has achieved significant results in agriculture. Through his many years of hard work and willingness to embrace new solutions, he demonstrates what a modern agricultural enterprise can achieve.

Marina Neyolova’s talent, vibrant personality, and ability to transform herself on stage have captivated audiences of all generations. Her work in both theatre and film has become iconic, while her skill and dedication set a benchmark for the entire theatrical community.

Nikolai Russu rose from a foreman at grass roots level to the head of one of the country’s leading bridge construction companies. He pours all his energy, knowledge, and strength into engineering projects that reshape Russian regions, unlock their economic potential, and advance Russia’s strategic development.

Anatoly Sviridov sets an exceptional example of devotion to his craft. A highly accomplished all-round turner, he continues the longstanding traditions of hand craftsmanship, skilfully combining them with the demands of modern manufacturing.

Among those receiving the Hero of Labour medal today is the legendary weapon designer Pyotr Serdyukov. Over the course of his long career, he has developed a number of unique small arms and specialised technical equipment that have enhanced the effectiveness of both the army and special forces.

The National Award for outstanding achievements in humanitarian activities is presented to Lomonosov Moscow State University Rector Viktor Sadovnichy. A man of broad scientific knowledge and global mindset, a man capable of foreseeing opportunities and quickly turning concepts into reality, he has been at the helm of Russia’s flagship university for over 30 years, making an immense contribution to preserving the best traditions of fundamental and classical education, and to strengthening Moscow University’s position as Russia’s leading centre of education, intellectual and spiritual development, and more broadly, to shaping strategic areas of Russian higher education. Several significant initiatives aimed at advancing and promoting mathematical knowledge have been carried out under Mr Sadovnichy’s leadership. Of course, his many years of work as Chairman of the Russian Union of Rectors deserve particular respect.

Today, we are also honouring representatives from various research fields.

Russia’s leading Orientalist and Africanist Alexei Vasilyev has combined his vast experience as an international journalist with deep scientific analysis in his fundamental and comprehensive research, reflecting the essence of complex and multifaceted processes in the Middle East. Alexei Vasilyev’s books and articles, and his unique knowledge are in high demand and highly relevant, especially for strengthening mutual understanding between our peoples.

Neurosurgeons Nikolai Konovalov, Vladimir Krylov and Dmitry Usachev have developed and widely implemented high-precision surgery on the brain and spinal cord. They have essentially shaped the modern Russian school of neurosurgery, which already produces highly skilled surgeons. Most importantly, the number of life-saving operations is growing.

Thanks to our scientists’ hard work, the Russian oil and gas sector has undergone some serious transformation. Russia’s first system to increase production efficiency using hydraulic fracturing technology has been developed. This domestic project, a vitally important piece of equipment is the fruit of labour by Oleg Zhdaneyev, Igor Kovshov and Yelena Korsa-Vavilova.

Friends,

The work of this year’s laureates in literature and the arts is united by a common theme: the history of the Russian state and pride in its achievements, and the understanding that the strength of our Fatherland lies in the continuity of traditions, respect for its heritage, and its great culture.

Yekaterina Zhukova, producer at the Moskino film studio, and Maria Ushakova, producer at the Rossiya TV channel, have spent more than a decade creating documentary projects about the most important periods in our country’s history, its heroes, and its creators. Each of their works is grounded in fact and features a dynamic, compelling plot. Through their work, they prove that film can and should serve as a vehicle for public awareness.

The continuity of the past, the present, and the future is reflected in the work of the brilliant director and screenwriter Andrei Mikhalkov-Konchalovsky. Through characters from Russian classics and reflections on modern times, through the lives of individuals and sweeping film epics, he reveals to the world the values of our culture, its character, its memory, its spiritual strength, inspiring us to stay true to our roots.

The award for charity work has been presented to Alexei Zarov, chief physician of the Hospital of St Alexis, Metropolitan of Moscow. In recent years, one of the specialities of this church hospital has been the care for the seriously ill. That experience proved invaluable during the special military operation. Alexei Zarov and his colleagues organised two mobile hospitals. At one of them, surgeons and general practitioners treated more than 5,000 patients. The second played a vital role in overcoming the humanitarian disaster following the destruction of the Kakhovskaya HPP in the Kherson Region. The training centres established by Alexei Zarov in Simferopol and Sevastopol have trained 8,000 nursing assistants, while nursing communities in Gorlovka, Makeyevka, Lugansk, Donetsk, and other cities provide assistance to residents of our historical regions. Alexei Zarov organises nursing teams not only for professional care but also, as he himself puts it, for service to the sick and wounded. He is, without doubt, a man of deep dedication.

Being there where it is difficult, staying close to those who are struggling, standing up for justice, and taking responsibility – these are the hallmarks of Tatyana Moskalkova, this year’s recipient of the Award for human rights work. Her work as Russia’s Human Rights Commissioner is an example of dedicated service to the people and the Fatherland. From the very beginning of the special military operation, her priority was supporting the military personnel, their families, and civilians affected by the fighting. She has worked – quite successfully – to uphold the constitutional guarantees for the citizens of Russia.

Friends,

The heights you have reached are within the grasp of extraordinary, strong, and generous people, those for whom their work and profession become the very meaning of life.

I sincerely thank every one of you. My heartfelt congratulations on these high state awards.

Thank you very much.

<…>

Vladimir Putin: Friends,

To close our ceremony, I would like to add a few words, building on what has just been said here.

One of the awardees remarked that she had spent her whole life doing what she loved and never imagined she would be recognised for it. And that, I think, is precisely the point.

Today is Russia Day. As we honour outstanding citizens of our country, we are, of course, thinking about young people – about future generations. The task of society and the state is to help them find their calling, so that each of them can discover something they truly enjoy and achieve remarkable success. Just like our award recipients today.

Another recipient said: “We had a dream.” So, may we all have a dream – one we can turn into reality and work towards.

It was also said that Saint Luke endured severe trials because he was with God. Today, on Russia Day, the Almighty, the Lord, is always with our country.

Happy Russia Day.

Meeting with heads of international news agencies

2026-06-16T19:08:12+04:00

Vladimir Putin’s meeting with heads of the world’s leading news agencies took place in the Constantine Palace.

Director General of TASS News Agency, moderator of the meeting Andrei Kondrashov: Mr President, guests,

Allow me to begin by expressing my deepest gratitude for upholding the steadfast tradition whereby the leaders of the world’s news agencies gather here, in the Northern capital, during the St Petersburg International Economic Forum, for an open dialogue with you. TASS has the honour of inviting our colleagues to this meeting.

I would note that some of our guests have forewarned us that they have come prepared with some rather incisive questions. In turn, we have cautioned them that you too may have a few questions for certain journalists from various countries.

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: No, I will not be asking questions. I am not a journalist. It is you who will be asking questions; I will be providing the answers.

Andrei Kondrashov: In any event, let us strive to make our meeting today open, candid, and dynamic. The purpose of such gatherings is, as in previous years, that the discussions here will be rapidly disseminated in hundreds of news flashes across the globe for those present here today and the agencies they represent are responsible for generating more than three-quarters of the global information flow.

Therefore, today, we will not follow any alphabetical order, but we will maintain one tradition. Let us begin our discussion with a representative of the fairer half of journalism – Ms Raushan Kazhibayeva, Director General of the Television and Radio Complex of the President of Kazakhstan.

Please, Ms Kazhibayeva, you have the floor for the first question.

Director of the Television and Radio Complex of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Raushan Kazhibayeva: Thank you very much.

Mr President, I have two questions for you.

Your recent state visit to Kazakhstan was a great success and undoubtedly one of the most significant events on our bilateral agenda this year.

During the visit, you and our President, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, adopted a joint document on the seven foundations of friendship and good-neighbourly relations between the peoples of Kazakhstan and Russia. My first question: what, in your view, is the significance of this document?

My second question relates to one of the most talked-about moments of the visit – the Amur tigers that Russia gifted to Kazakhstan. President Tokayev called this gift the highlight of the visit. Could you tell us whether this is not just an environmental project, but rather a symbol – a vivid symbol of trust between our countries? Thank you.

Vladimir Putin: Our relations with Kazakhstan are advancing steadily; they are on the rise. That said, I should point out straight away that our Kazakhstani friends and partners are not easy partners. We always have very heated debates on almost every issue – whether it is financial relations, industrial cooperation, investment conditions, or major joint projects. But on both sides, there is a desire to find a compromise that doesn’t just satisfy both parties but also helps us achieve shared goals. And our shared goal is clear: development and prosperity for the citizens of Kazakhstan and Russia.

We fully understand – we know that we are bound by centuries of shared history, no exaggeration here, and we have certain advantages inherited from the time we were part of a single state. What are those advantages? Cooperation, and particularly unified transport links. You asked your question in Russian, and I am grateful for that. That too is an important factor – one that, to some extent, and in many cases, takes on a purely economic dimension. Everything is clear: we understand each other, and we speak the same language.

There is also enormous interest in continuing the benefits of education – both the evolving education system in Kazakhstan and the developments and new trends emerging in the Russian Federation. As you may recall, the President of Kazakhstan and I attended the launch of the Sirius system, which has proven successful in developing effective methods for identifying and supporting gifted children. Of course, Kazakhstan has many gifted children – they just need to be found – and this area of our cooperation will focus on this.

Energy, as you know, industrial production, space, as well as our latest major project – the construction of a nuclear power plant in Kazakhstan. I want to note that Kazakhstan is a country with abundant resources that are in high demand by the rest of the world. These resources include fuel for power plants and NPPs. We cooperate successfully with Kazakhstan in this area. I am confident that, by relying on its own resource base and developing our joint potential, Kazakhstan will achieve great success and tackle many tasks in energy, diversifying its energy resources. I believe Kazakhstan will obtain up to 20 percent of its electrical energy from the nuclear power plant.

We produce uranium together, as I said, and will continue this production. But the most important thing is not the fact that NPP units will be built in Kazakhstan. Most importantly, a new industry will emerge. This new industry will provide for professional training, research and production activities. We will work on this together. It is an extremely important sector for both us and Kazakhstan.

We will continue our cooperation in space, machine engineering, and many other industries.

I have already talked about humanitarian links. Education plays an enormous role. A great number of Kazakhstani are enrolled to study in Russian universities, and we are very grateful to the President of Kazakhstan for launching an international body to support the Russian language. I believe it is a forward-looking initiative that will help preserve our relations and promote their development across all fields, including humanitarian cooperation.

So, as concerns tigers, it is quite a natural thing. We are simply focused on the restoration of nature, the environment, flora and fauna. We also receive help – for example, Tajikistan has transferred snow leopards to us, for which we are immensely grateful to our Tajikistani friends. We have done a great deal to preserve the population of Amur tigers. By the way, they are the largest tigers in the world, second to none. Amur tigers are the largest. There were similar tigers in Kazakhstan in the past. If we can help our friends in Kazakhstan in any way, we will certainly do so.

I have seen this picture, and it is impressive. By the way, we held an event called a tiger summit here. So many countries are concerned about preserving the population of these beautiful animals. I think our cooperation on this and other environmental projects is very important.

This has to do with a very pragmatic matter of trans-border river resource utilisation. There is much to discuss in this area. Our work here is quite extensive. I am certain all the goals will be achieved.

Thank you.

Andrei Kondrashov: Mr President, to your left is Mr Fu Hua, representing the Xinhua News Agency from China.

Just two weeks ago, if you recall, he helped organise an exhibition for you and President of China Xi Jinping, together with the TASS news agency. And now, two weeks later, he is here with us to ask his question. Please, go ahead, Comrade Fu Hua.

President of Xinhua News Agency (PRC) Fu Hua (retranslated): Mr President,

It was a real pleasure to have you visit us in China. A remarkable visit – and a highly successful one. This year, we held a very important exhibition marking the anniversary of our news agencies. Thank you for your special attention to it. May I take this opportunity to ask you a couple of questions?

In May, you made your 25th visit to China, where you discussed major issues concerning our international relations with President Xi Jinping. We have counted: over the past 14 years, you have met more than 50 times. This is truly an extraordinary, unprecedented achievement. Our relationship is good-neighbourly, friendly, and truly at its peak. I believe this visit left a real mark. This close engagement at such a senior level – how did we achieve it? How did we reach this unprecedented level? That is my first question.

My second question: We have jointly issued a new, comprehensive joint statement. We, of course, remain committed to the UN Charter, upholding its principles and purposes in full, and we defend the international order. We were the victors in World War II. What should we do to protect historical truth? How do we pass it on to future generations, without allowing anyone to distort or destroy it? Those are my two questions. Thank you.

Vladimir Putin: First of all, I would like to thank you for the warm welcome during my visit to Beijing, and for the exhibition you organised together with your colleague, Mr Kondrashov. It was a fascinating and substantive exhibition. Thank you very much.

As for the results of our cooperation, here is what I would say. In recent years, especially since the events still unfolding in Ukraine, people have increasingly said: “Russia has pivoted towards Asia. It has changed its policy.”

But Russia has not changed anything, and it has not made any pivot. The agreement that underpins our cooperation – and is the foundation for our current results, which are impressive (according to various figures, our mutual trade is somewhere around $250 billion, and diversification is progressing strongly) – that agreement was signed back in 2001.

We are natural allies and partners. Indeed, we are neighbours, sharing an extensive common border. One cannot choose one’s neighbours – that is a fact of life. Such is the course of history. Over the centuries, throughout our interactions, a particular system of principles governing our relations has emerged. Not yesterday, not today, and not five years ago – but over centuries, these principles have taken shape. China is progressing rapidly and dynamically, assuming an increasingly significant role in the global economy, world politics, and international affairs as a whole. Naturally, we have been observing this closely – and not merely observing; we have been engaging in close collaboration and cooperation. Twenty five years ago, we signed the foundational Treaty, which established favourable preconditions and a robust foundation for the development of bilateral cooperation in all areas. Such is the result.

In recent years, as both the Chinese and Russian economies have expanded and diversified, new opportunities have emerged for us – encompassing a vast array of fields. I will refrain from enumerating everything I deem significant and important. The most crucial aspect is that in recent years, we have increasingly focused on matters relating to the new economy, which is rooted in artificial intelligence, information technology, advancements in biology, genetics, and so forth.

We have always cooperated – not just in the last five years, but consistently – in the military sphere, and our interaction continues unabated. There is nothing new in this regard; it is simply a tradition of our relations, both military and military-technical cooperation. We are jointly considering certain developments in this domain. I reiterate, this is not connected to current events that are capturing global attention, including those in Ukraine or even in the Middle East. We simply cooperate and maintain friendship with China – not directed against anyone, as I have stated, but rather in each other’s interests. That is all.

Here, particularly in the pursuit of advancements in the realms of artificial intelligence and high technology, lies the future of our collaboration. This is a subject we invariably discuss during our meetings with President Xi Jinping. Incidentally, we have truly trust-based relations. He addresses me as “my old friend,” and I reciprocate. This is neither an exaggeration nor a figure of speech. We have cultivated a relationship of trust.

Naturally, we are guided first and foremost by the national interests of our countries, yet these interests often align, and personal relationships provide a solid foundation for reaching ever-new horizons. That is why I believe we have established favourable preconditions for enhancing our interaction with China. I am confident that all the tasks we have set during my visit will be accomplished, and all the objectives will be achieved.

President Xi Jinping and I have outlined our schedule of bilateral contacts for this year – and this applies not only to us: the governments, ministries, and agencies, along with our leading companies, are meeting and collaborating, including in the energy sector, where, I am sure, we will soon delight the global energy market with new agreements between Russia and China.

Andrei Kondrashov: Colleagues, who would like to speak next?

Vijay Joshi, CEO and Editor-in-Chief of the Press Trust of India.

CEO and Editor-in-Chief at The Press Trust of India (India) Vijay Joshi: Mr President, first of all, thank you for this opportunity and for your hospitality.

Mr President, as you are preparing to travel to India for the BRICS summit in September and the global community is watching the evolving dynamics between Moscow and New Delhi very closely. While this special and privileged strategic partnership remains the cornerstone for both nations, some observers say that India’s alignment with Washington creates structural frictions with Russia.

From your perspective, how will you seek to inject fresh momentum into the bilateral relationship? What steps can be taken to ensure that Russia-India ties remain resilient against external geopolitical pressures? And how would you describe Russia-India relations in this redrawn geopolitical landscape in your words? Thank you.

Vladimir Putin: You have described these relations yourself, and you characterised them accurately. As you noted, this is a special and privileged strategic partnership. Such a relationship was not built overnight, or over the course of a few years. It is the result of decades of cooperation. The Soviet Union established diplomatic relations with India in 1947 and consistently supported the development of the young state. We are happy to see that, thanks to the tireless work, talent, and determination of the Indian people, India has achieved remarkable success and made tremendous progress in its development.

Everyone present here knows that India is currently demonstrating the highest economic growth rates among the world’s major economies. This doesn’t fall out of the sky; it is the result of consistent and purposeful efforts, above all by the government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The country’s strong economic performance reflects the successful implementation of the policies and development strategies pursued under his leadership.

We still have a lot of work to do together, but we are confident that bilateral trade will reach $100 billion in the coming years. At present, trade turnover stands at approximately $58 – $60 billion. However, all the necessary conditions are in place to intensify our joint efforts and achieve even more ambitious goals.

Our cooperation extends far beyond the energy sector, including nuclear power. The Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant is already operating and continues to expand, and we expect decisions on additional sites in the future. We will also continue to deepen cooperation in the hydrocarbon sector. Russia remains one of the largest foreign investors in the Indian economy, and we intend to further strengthen investment cooperation on a reciprocal basis.

Everybody knows that we also maintain close cooperation in the pharmaceutical industry, where Russian companies are ready to offer a wide range of products and solutions. I will not go into details, but we have outlined a number of highly promising, long-term initiatives that are of mutual interest to both India and Russia.

However, I find your question somewhat surprising. You suggested that India’s cooperation with the United States is creating difficulties in its relations with Russia. We do not see it that way at all. Where did you get that from? We are glad that India is developing relations with all countries. India is a major global power with a population of 1.5 billion people, a rapidly growing economy, and one of the world’s largest democracies. It is entirely natural for India to develop relations with a wide range of countries in accordance with its national interests.

It is another thing that the United States is trying to pressure India on certain issues, particularly on certain issues of cooperation with Russia. But I think everyone has long since realised that pressuring Prime Minister Modi, who leads a country with a population of 1.5 billion, is futile. Moreover, it harms international relations and bilateral relations, no matter from which side this pressure comes.

We do not see any negative consequences arising from the current situation. We believe that mutually acceptable solutions can be found with all parties involved. To date, we have not observed any serious adverse effects. Russia and India continue to strengthen their partnership, and we regard India as a reliable partner.

Andrei Kondrashov: And here’s the United States. James Jordan is one of those who came from The Associated Press to ask tough questions. Please.

Vladimir Putin: Go ahead, play hard ball.

News Director for Europe & Africa at the Associated Press James Jordan: Thank you, Mr Kondrashov, for the organisation of this gathering. It is always fascinating to hear President Putin’s views on many global matters. I have been here for three years now and it is always an interesting experience, so thank you.

President Putin, yesterday hundreds of drones were launched into Russia from Ukraine. Some struck a naval base nearby, some struck an oil depot nearby, causing a plume of smoke over St Petersburg, your home city. Flights were also disrupted into the airport here. More broadly, the Russian economy has dipped recently; your personal approval ratings have also dipped; and the US says the invasion has become a strategic disaster – those are the words of Marco Rubio. He also added that Russia won’t achieve its war aims by military means alone. Given this, is it still logical to pursue your war aim of controlling the hold of the Donbass region or are you ready to make a deal? Thank you.

Vladimir Putin: First of all, one does not exclude the other. Controlling the entire Donbass region and making a deal are not mutually exclusive.

Why do you think they are in conflict? You mentioned Mr Rubio’s statement. He is a serious partner; we are in contact with him. He recently spoke in the Senate or Congress. It is clear that the domestic political situation in the United States is complex – some support him, some attack him. What the Secretary of State says on a specific issue inside his home country is certainly of interest to us, but ultimately, we are more interested in the real situation. And if you are talking about the conflict in Ukraine right now, we are interested in the actual situation on the ground.

What does that situation look like? It is as follows. First of all, and this needs to be emphasised, Russian troops are advancing along the entire line of contact. There is not a single place where Russian troops are not advancing. The biggest problem facing the Ukrainian Armed Forces today is a disastrous shortage of personnel.

Recently, the Ukrainian Armed Forces have been reduced by 100,000 personnel. Monthly losses are around 40,000. As a result of forced mobilisation – people, as you know, are being snatched off the streets, like stray dogs, and forced into the army. I will tell you about the consequences now. Monthly losses are approximately 40,000. Forced mobilisation brings in around 15,000–16,000 per month, and about 14,000 return from hospitals after being wounded. So each month, there is a net loss of roughly 10,000 personnel. On top of that, around 20,000 desert each month. At the start of this year, the number of deserters was around 60,000. People are being forcibly taken – there is no motivation, no one wants to fight.

The almost official figure is that 200,000 criminal cases have been opened for desertions. That is one of the problems, but the most significant one. It leads to the loss of territory and towns. Just recently – I will not give the exact number of communities now, in case I am mistaken – the Russian army has brought approximately 2,440 square kilometres under its control. The offensive, as I said, is ongoing daily.

Since you mentioned Donbass, the Russian army is currently in full control of the Lugansk People’s Republic – 100 percent. Over 85 percent of the territory of the Donetsk People’s Republic is under our control. Only recently, Ukraine controlled some 25 percent of the territory, and now it’s down to less than 15 percent. We also control 80 percent of the Zaporozhye Region. This process continues on a daily basis.

True, Western sponsors supply a great number of drones for Ukraine – different categories, including long-range UAVs. Unfortunately, some of them do break through. But Russia has its own air defence system. We must sure refine it. Yes, we must reinforce it, and we will by all means do it. Ukraine has no such system whatsoever. They have some of its elements but no system. They have Patriots and other types of weapons but the shortage is catastrophic. But the system as such does not exist. Similarly, Ukraine has no strike systems like those the Russian Federation has. By that I mean hypersonic missiles, cruise missiles – sea-, air- and ground-launched. We also have something vital – the Russian people’s patriotism and strong will that guarantee that we will achieve all the goals and objectives of the special military operation.

While listing essential issues, I should mention one more circumstance. We have our own production, resource, research and workforce base to address all the objectives concerning the provisions of the Russian Armed Forces. This base is gaining strength with every passing month and, certainly, serves as the foundation for all the achievements and advances that I have just mentioned.

To summarise, I would like to add the following: Without doubt, we are ready and willing to reach an agreement with Ukraine by peaceful means – and based on what we have discussed at the meeting with President Trump in Anchorage. At that meeting, certain questions were put before Russia so that we could agree on certain compromises. Russia agrees to the compromises discussed in Anchorage. It is necessary that Ukraine also agrees to make them. Then, the conflict will be resolved naturally and quickly.

Andrei Kondrashov: Have you received answers to all your questions, Mr Jordan? Should time permit, you may pose additional queries, but for the moment, allow me, Mr President, to put my question to you.

The retaliatory strikes we are carrying out today in response to the incessant terrorist assaults from Ukraine – targeting infrastructure used by the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) and military-industrial complex facilities – are, before our very eyes, taking on a systemic character. Indeed, one of our recent retaliatory strikes raises the question – was the Oreshnik used in that instance? Furthermore, what, broadly speaking, does the use of such weaponry afford us?

Vladimir Putin: As for our new systems, they are being developed – this includes the Oreshnik. However, they differ somewhat from what we used to do prior to the conflict in Ukraine.

What do I mean by this? You see, we tested such systems at proving grounds, but the Oreshnik was not tested in this way, and this did not constitute a combat use. Across the territory of Ukraine, there has essentially been no full combat use of the Oreshnik, and as for the latest instance – it is not quite that … To be perfectly candid, I will share a major state military secret with you: we simply struck locations where it was possible to observe the results. This applies to Belaya Tserkov and, even more so, to the DPR area within the main fortified zone. Afterwards, our drones flew into the structure we hit, and we meticulously observed how the separating warheads were dispersed, calculating everything to the millimetre. This is crucial for us to make future decisions on the full-scale employment of the Oreshnik against designated targets, including urban areas.

Andrei Kondrashov: Thank you.

Colleagues, who is next?

Martin Romanczyk, Deutsche Presse-Agentur (DPA), Germany.

But, you know, I would first like to put a question to Martin myself, if I may. You represent Germany’s largest and leading news agency. As a journalist, do you get the impression that your country is preparing for war? Is this really the case, or does it merely appear so to us? And is it truly gearing up to engage in conflict with Russia?

Vladimir Putin: I object. There is no need for you to respond. You are not here to be interrogated – you are here as an investigator; interrogate others.

Andrei Kondrashov: Then we will speak separately after this meeting.

Please, go ahead.

Head of the News Service of the Deutsche Presse-Agentur (DPA) (Germany) Martin Romanczyk (retranslated): I would like to respond to your question. No, I do not think so.

Mr President, thank you very much for the invitation.

I would also like to address the topic of Ukraine and return to a question that has already been asked here. You spoke about peace. Germany and many European countries wish to take part in these peace negotiations currently being mediated by the United States, despite the conflict in Iran. What role can Germany play, and what role can the Federal Chancellor assume? And, if I may, I would like to add to this question. You mentioned Gerhard Schröder as a negotiator on behalf of the Europeans. Apart from Gerhard Schröder, whom else can you envisage in this role – who could undertake these mediation functions on behalf of Germany? Thank you.

Vladimir Putin: You raised two points that I would like to pay attention to. First, you said that Europe would like to participate in the negotiations. Right? Second, you asked who, apart from Mr Schroeder, could serve as a mediator. One thing is to participate in the negotiations, and another thing is to be a mediator. How can the European Union or separate countries of the European Union be a mediator if they directly abet the efforts of the country which we have an armed conflict with? What kind of mediators can they be? If you want to be a mediator, you have to be neutral.That is my first point.

And secondly, I was surprised by the reaction to my mention of Mr Schroeder as a possible mediator. An immediate outcry followed: “No, Schroeder cannot be involved because he is Putin’s friend.” He is not Putin’s friend. He is a German statesman, and one of the best, in my view, because he has his own position and the courage to defend it. Unfortunately, there are not many politicians in Europe today who possess those qualities.

Europe is currently facing significant energy challenges. However, it was Gerhard Schroeder who championed infrastructure projects such as Nord Stream, designed to provide the German economy with reliable and affordable energy supplies from Russia. Moreover, these projects were not only about securing deliveries; they also created a framework of mutual commitments and obligations between the parties involved. What matters is not that we have a good relationship with him. What matters is that, while pursuing his country’s national interests, he has demonstrated that he is a person whose word can be trusted. That is the essence of the matter. Any individual seeking to act as a mediator must be trusted by both sides. Frankly, I find it difficult to understand how Russia could trust people who, for years, have been saying about the need to inflict a strategic defeat on Russia.

That is precisely the issue, Martin, das ist das Problem. Nevertheless, we are not refusing to talk. We have never refused contacts with representatives of the European Union in any format. As for the EU acting as a mediator in negotiations with Ukraine, there are obvious difficulties, as I have already mentioned, and I think that is difficult to dispute. But we are not rejecting contacts. If they want to talk, they know how to reach us. They can pick up the phone and call. If they want to come, they are welcome to do so. It is not Russia that is refusing engagement. I was also surprised to hear claims that the evil Russia had stopped supplying energy to Europe. We did not stop. Europe chose to stop buying, hoping that this would cause our economy to collapse. Well, they have seen that nothing has collapsed, that it’s time to stop, to realize that it was a wrong approach and perhaps make some adjustments. But instead we continue to hear the same rhetoric. They have made so many public statements and political commitments that it is difficult to change their position now.

I’m not going to comment. I just want to say that we never rejected a dialogue. I want to reaffirm it. If anybody considers it reasonable to resume dialogue with Russia – go ahead. Who will be the negotiator from Europe? I don’t know. We are not imposing anything. I’ve heard this hubbub about Russia wanting to impose something, suggest some negotiators. We are not imposing anything or anyone. Naturally, we want to know who this could be. Let me repeat: It must be some people we could trust. It is just a working matter that could be discussed quietly and calmly, say, at the level of foreign ministers or intelligence services. The contacts between our intelligence agencies continue, by the way.

Martin Romanczyk (retranslated): Mr President, you spoke about Nord Stream. Members of the Alternative for Germany party are present at this economic forum. They are supporting the resumption of Russia’s gas supplies via Nord Stream. What do you think of this party? We are holding regional and federal elections soon. What are your expectations of this party? What is your general attitude towards the Alternative for Germany party?

Thank you.

Vladimir Putin: I believe it would be improper for me to give assessments of the political forces of the Federal Republic. We know – and I know – that, if this corresponds to reality, or as far as I was informed, Alternative for Germany is currently ranked at the top among the political parties of the Federal Republic. It is ahead of CDU/CSU – in fact, quite significantly. It is also ahead of the Social Democratic Party of Germany by miles.

I don’t want to comment, but I will say one thing. In my opinion, it is happening because this party’s leaders can formulate the interests of the German people and the German economy clearly and precisely. They are not afraid to declare them and they are willing to fight for them. Hence their rating and results.

I don’t know and I don’t want to speculate about further developments on the political stage of the Federal Republic. As for opinions, we welcome any German political forces that are willing to restore and develop relations with Russia, be it Alternative for Germany or any other party. We will work with everybody who wants to work with us.

Andrei Kondrashov: If there is a country that definitely wants to work with us, it is Belarus.

I would like to give the floor to BelTA, the Belarusian news agency. Andrei Mokhor, go ahead, please.

Director General of the Belarusian Telegraph Agency (BetTA) Andrei Mokhor: Good evening, Mr President.

First, thank you for the opportunity to have this genuinely open discussion on topics that have been a matter of concern far beyond the circle of people sitting around this table. It has already been said on multiple occasions that the relations between Belarus and Russia can be regarded as a benchmark of sorts in terms of interstate relations and striking a balance between integration and the unconditional commitment to preserving sovereignty. Even the EAEU has yet to achieve this level of interaction.

I would like to ask your opinion about ways of overcoming the emerging crisis of trust between long-standing partners, our partners, whose actions sometimes de facto amount to severing ties.

Vladimir Putin: A crisis of trust with our partners?

Andrei Mokhor: Yes. A crisis of trust with our partners within the post-Soviet space. In particular, I am referring to the developments concerning Armenia.

Vladimir Putin: You know, there is nothing extraordinary about this. The political forces behind the current Prime Minister have been talking about this for quite some time now. They have no qualms and are open about it.

In fact, there is nothing wrong with striving to follow Western standards, the European standards. I believe that any sovereign country, and Armenia is of course one of them – every sovereign country has the right to set what it views as priority standards which can benefit the country and reinforce its independence, sovereignty and, most importantly, its economy, as well as to choose its partners accordingly.

What has raised our concerns? It was the fact that Armenia has adopted a law on launching the process to join the European Union – this is how it is titled, by the way, and it was Mr Lukashenko who drew our attention to this fact, while I even forgot about this, but he pointed out the actual title of the law. Business as usual, nothing extraordinary about this, if not for the fact that Armenia, as I have already said, and we discussed this in Kazakhstan too when we had a meeting with our colleagues – Armenia operates within the framework of the Eurasian Economic Union. There are different standards, technical regulations in agriculture, transport, and logistics – there are so many divergences.

I would very much like to see, at some point in the historical perspective, technical standards, logistics and all the other numerous factors involved – many of which may seem a mere formality at first glance but are in fact crucial to economic development – become aligned between the European Union and the EAEU. This would make us a truly vast economic space “from Lisbon to the Urals,” as De Gaulle said, though it would be even better if it extended all the way to Vladivostok. However, this is currently impossible for technological reasons, as the EAEU and EU free trade zones are incompatible.

Of course, this is a concern for us. If a relevant law is adopted, this goes beyond mere talk – it is the law, and we would like to ask our Armenian colleagues to decide on their development path as soon as possible. The market organisation and the legal framework within the EAEU depend on this, because we debate every issue just as it is done in the EU. Without wishing to overstate this, our colleagues sometimes become quite animated in these discussions.

Every comma is sometimes important. But it is also important for us to know how this interaction will be structured. This not only concerns energy, although this is important because the common energy market is one of the few issues that has not been coordinated in terms of our policy as a whole. As you can see, even our colleagues in Germany are concerned about Nord Stream. This [energy] is a crucial element today, and it is especially important in the post-Soviet space, that is, within the EAEU.

Moreover, Prime Minister Pashinyan has said just recently that he considers it important to hold a referendum on this issue. Our only request is that this is clarified as quickly as possible. Nothing more. We have no objections. We will maintain good relations with Armenia no matter what development path it chooses to follow.

As for other countries, as I said, we manage to come to terms, we always do, despite all the challenges of negotiations. I am confident that we will be able to do this in the future as well.

As for Armenia, Russia advocated, at Armenia’s request, for its accession to the EAEU. I mean that, in terms of a number of economic indicators, Armenia did not fully fit the overall framework at the time. However, it has now decided that it should explore a different direction. We have no objection to that – it is entirely their choice. Our only request is that a decision be made as quickly as possible and that we proceed openly and transparently. That’s all. So I do not see any major political problem here. There are, of course, economic and technical issues to address, but I hope we will be able to resolve those as well.

By the way, regarding Nord Stream. As you know, the Nord Stream pipelines were blown up, correct? But one string of Nord Stream 2 remains intact and undamaged. Through it, Russian gas could be pumped to the Federal Republic of Germany starting as early as tomorrow. You just need — and I am not joking — simply to press a button, and the gas will start flowing. But that requires a decision by the Government of the Federal Republic. We have an existing contract between Gazprom and its partner in the Federal Republic, and contacts with Gazprom are ongoing; they remain in communication. Gazprom has never refused supplies and is ready to deliver tomorrow. Its partners also want this. All that is needed is a decision by the Government of the Federal Republic.

And here we come to the key issue – a political question, a question of sovereignty. Because this system was not only blown up – I consider it an act of state terrorism, and I think you would agree – but even though one line remains intact and operational, it is still subject to US sanctions. If the German government reaches agreement with its partners, the sanctions will be lifted, we will press the button, and gas will start flowing – tomorrow, if necessary.

This is a matter of sovereignty: whether they agree or do not agree, or whether, without agreeing with anyone, they simply say no, or explain to their partners in Washington that they need this because they are going through a very difficult period. High energy prices are undermining the competitiveness of the German economy and harming the European Union as a whole, because Germany remains the locomotive of the European economy. This system needs to be put back into operation. They could reach an agreement peacefully, explaining the seriousness of the situation. That is all. With increased capacity, up to 25, and potentially 28 billion cubic metres per year could be supplied – starting tomorrow.

But what Gazprom needs from its German partners is a clear answer: will they take the gas or not? Otherwise, we will redirect it to other markets and sell it to other partners. The contract remains in force. And it is not Gazprom that is failing to meet its obligations – Gazprom is ready. The German partner is not taking the gas, because there are instructions from Brussels and Berlin not to take it. That is all.

Let’s continue.

Andrei Kondrashov: Middle East News Agency MENA, Egypt. Shohrat Aref, please go ahead.

Managing Editor for European and Middle Eastern countries at the Middle East News Agency (MENA) (Egypt) Shohrat Aref (retranslated): Thank you, Mr President, for inviting me to take part in this dialogue.

I have the following question: What are your thoughts about President el-Sisi’s role in promoting stability in the Middle East? What role could Egypt and Russia play in reducing tension in the Middle East?

Vladimir Putin: President el-Sisi is a good friend, and I have a very good relationship with him. I also hope this helps us expand our bilateral ties. Trade between our two countries has been stable and is enjoying positive momentum, and there are good prospects for undertaking major projects. For many years now, we have been discussing the project to create a Russian technology valley in Egypt’s Nile Valley. Today, we are working hard on the project to build a nuclear power plant in Egypt. I hope its first block becomes operational in 2028.

There is significant, effective momentum in our relations. We have engaged quite a few local specialists to perform construction work, which means that this is a very impactful project. We are also working in other sectors. We have developed a relationship of trust in our political cooperation on the international stage. Russia appreciates President el-Sisi’s efforts to bring about a settlement in the Middle East.

The Palestine tragedy has been somewhat relegated to the background considering the developments in and around Iran and the Strait of Hormuz, but the Palestine issue has not disappeared. It remains acute. In this regard, the President of Egypt has made and continues to make a meaningful contribution to achieving a settlement, which means arriving at a fair resolution regarding all Palestine-related matters. Of course, I would like to stress again that in the opinion of the Russian Federation, the creation of a viable Palestinian state is the only fundamental approach to resolving this issue.

I know that the President of Egypt has been working hard on the agenda dealing with settling the Iranian crisis. He has been in touch with all parties to this process at all times, and we have also maintained contact. We seek each other’s advice, listen to each other, hear each other, and take our respective positions into account. I would like to thank President el-Sisi for attaching so much importance to strengthening Russia-Egypt ties. This is instrumental. Egypt is one of our priority partners in the region.

Andrei Kondrashov: Spain has been a country that has protested conflicts in the Middle East. We have José Manuel Sanz Mingote, Editor-in-Chief of Agencia EFE, with us. You have the floor.

Editor-in-Chief and Director of International Information at the Spanish news agency EFE José Manuel Sanz Mingote (retranslated): Thank you.

I would like to thank our friends at the TASS News Agency for their hospitality.

Mr President, my question concerns Ukraine. What is preventing the achievement of a durable peace in Ukraine, one that would allow all of Russia’s legitimate concerns related to the conflict to be discussed?

We can see that some progress has been made, and you have told us about this. But it is taking too long to achieve these goals, especially in Donbass. We have seen numerous exchanges of strikes between the sides. Is now the right time for a ceasefire, for sitting down at the negotiation table to discuss all issues? Even if the EU and European countries cannot mediate the process, they could help look for a solution.

Thank you very much.

Vladimir Putin: I believe that the EU could indeed help look for a solution. In my opinion, a solution should be reached within the framework of the arrangements made in Anchorage, and the Ukrainian side is fully aware of this. I would like to reiterate that the question raised before the meeting in Anchorage was whether Russia was ready to make certain compromises. I said during my visit to Anchorage and my meeting with the US President that we were ready, and I specified the agreements and compromises we would be prepared to make. The issue is for the Ukrainian side to accept these compromises. However, judging by all indications, primarily the internal political situation, Kiev is not ready for this.

The reason is that if peace is achieved, internal political strife and the struggle for power in Kiev will intensify dramatically, and the economic situation will further deteriorate against this backdrop. It seems to me that the ruling authorities [in Kiev] are not interested in stopping the hostilities because in this situation they are unlikely to have any good prospects – let’s put this tactfully – for retaining power.

Furthermore, they will have to address economic matters. European experts know how much it will cost to rebuild the Ukrainian economy – hundreds of billions of euros – and how long this will take. I am aware of the German Chancellor’s proposals for making Ukraine an associated member, and so on. That is none of our business. We are not against this – go ahead. But we are against turning the EU into a military bloc. This is a matter of concern to us. But we are not against economic integration. Go right ahead. European experts know how much this will cost, and European farmers know what will happen if European markets open to Ukraine’s agricultural products.

I could speak about this for a long time, but this is how I will reply to your question: Yes, the EU could potentially play a positive role, though not by supplying weapons but by trying to convince Kiev to accept the compromises we discussed in Anchorage. That is all.

Andrei Kondrashov: Please, Chairman of the Board of AZERTAC news agency Vugar Aliyev, Azerbaijan.

Please, go ahead.

Chairman of the Board of the Azerbaijan State News Agency (AZERTAC) Vugar Aliyev: Good evening, Mr President.

Thank you very much for taking the time to meet with us journalists.

My question relates to relations between our countries. May I ask how you assess the prospects for developing relations between Azerbaijan and Russia?

Vladimir Putin: I would rate them as highly favourable. Our relations with Azerbaijan have always been, and continue to be, very positive. This extends to both the economic and political spheres.

We signed a Declaration on Allied Interaction a couple of years ago, and relations are developing accordingly. President Aliyev is making significant efforts to infuse this treaty with tangible substance. This is evident in the specific areas of our cooperation. I believe that accumulated Russian investment in the Azerbaijani economy exceeds 10 billion rubles. Numerous enterprises operate with Russian capital. We also have close cooperation on cultural and educational matters. A substantial number of Azerbaijanis, as is well known, work in the Russian Federation. They send money to support their families. We are striving to organise this in a proper, civilised manner.

We have numerous areas of mutual interest in logistics, in particular, the North-South corridor providing access to Iran. At present, of course, this has been somewhat hampered due to the events surrounding Iran, yet it remains an area of significant mutual interest.

We are deeply grateful to President Aliyev for assisting us in the delivery of humanitarian aid to Iran. It should be noted that the Azerbaijani side has been diligent and effective in this regard, responding promptly to our requests. This is crucial for alleviating the situation in that region as well.

Trade turnover is on the rise, and it should be noted that additional opportunities for the mutual supply of goods are emerging. We are engaged in negotiations on a wide range of specific areas. At this stage, I deem it premature to elaborate on this, but it pertains primarily to the energy sector. We will meet with President Aliyev and will certainly discuss all matters in due course. On the whole, I believe that relations between the two countries are evolving – and evolving very positively.

Andrei Kondrashov: Colleagues, the next question, please. Who is next?

The Kyrgyz agency Kabar. Director Mederbek Shermetaliyev, please.

Director of the Kyrgyz National News Agency Kabar Mederbek Shermetaliyev: Thank you, Mr Kondrashov.

Good afternoon, Mr President.

Thank you for this opportunity to take part in today’s meeting with you alongside the heads of news agencies. Allow me to ask two questions.

Mr President, President Sadyr Japarov has repeatedly underscored that Central Asia should become a region of peace, neighbourliness, and shared development. Against this backdrop, Kyrgyzstan’s election to the UN Security Council was an important event not only for our country but also for the entire region. What role, in your opinion, can Central Asia play in strengthening international security in the coming years? That is my first question.

My second question concerns the fact that this year, Bishkek is hosting the SCO summit. Against the backdrop of growing global challenges and instability, what joint initiatives within the SCO does Russia consider a priority for strengthening regional security, and what key proposals does the Russian side plan to put forward for discussion during the summit?

Thank you.

Vladimir Putin: As for what we intend to put forward at the summit, we will, first and foremost, be guided by the proposals of the Kyrgyz side as the host country of this event. We know that both the President of Kyrgyzstan and all our colleagues are giving this their close attention and working on it. Our respective government bodies are in constant contact, both through the foreign ministries and through the relevant economic agencies, coordinating their efforts. I am confident that this will lead to the necessary compromises being reached where required. More broadly, it will result not merely in formulations but in the definition of objectives for the further development of the association as a whole.

What I would like to draw attention to is the following. It was initially established as a mechanism for resolving border issues between the People’s Republic of China and those republics of the former Soviet Union that share a border with China. Today, how many member states are there – 27 countries? It is, indeed, a major organisation.

Few outside observers take note, but substantive work on economic integration is underway, and this is becoming a prominent factor in regional affairs, at the very least. And given that there are, after all, 27 countries involved, this is a significant undertaking. What is important is that Central Asia – with the resources of the Central Asian countries, its vast territory, and its growing population – is attracting ever-greater attention from the entire international community, primarily, of course, on the basis of the region’s economic potential. Everything that is being done within the framework of the organisation itself will undoubtedly be of interest both to Russia and to all our partners.

Therefore, we certainly wish our Kyrgyz friends every success and will do everything we can to ensure that this significant event, in my view, proves a success.

Andrei Kondrashov: We have not had questions from France or Great Britain yet.

Let’s start with France. A major agency, Agence France-Presse – Pierre Ausseill, Regional Director for Africa and Europe, please.

AFP Regional Director for Africa and Europe Pierre Ausseill (retranslated): Good evening, Mr President.

I have a short question on Ukraine, covering the economy and Mr Zelensky. Russian military spending has risen considerably due to the special military operation, and the economy is showing signs of strain. Can the Russian economy withstand this?

My second question concerns Mr Zelensky. If you were to sit down at the negotiating table with him to sign a peace treaty, what would you say to him? And do you consider him the legitimate representative of Ukraine?

Vladimir Putin: On the question of his legitimacy, that is a matter for lawyers, for legal analysis. Of course, if we reach the point of signing any documents – and that is not a whim on our part; any country in our position would want to sign documents of this kind, which would be truly historic for both Russia and Ukraine – then we would want to sign them with someone who is legitimate under the other country’s constitution, the fundamental law of Ukraine. This requires careful legal analysis. I will not go into the details now – I have spoken on this before, and anyone can look up what I have said.

Here is the core issue. Two years ago, in May 2024, President Zelensky’s term expired. At the end of last year and the start of this year, there was much talk of elections in Ukraine. Where is that talk now? Will there be elections or not? I suggest that you ask them these questions as well. That matters. Yet no one is asking these questions now. If elections are held, when? And of course, the outcome would be crucial.

Under the Ukrainian Constitution, a president is limited to serving two five-year consecutive terms. If we accept the view of those who say that President Zelensky has legally extended his powers, two years [of his second term] are completed. Will he run for another five-year term? This is contrary to the Constitution, which only stipulates two five-year consecutive terms, 10 years altogether. What about the two years he has been in power now? There are many questions, but if we ever reach the stage of signing documents, I believe that if there is a desire to end this military conflict peacefully – and Russia would like to do this, we will find those who should sign the relevant document. When there is a will, there is a way. This is extremely important, but we must remember that it is a legal issue.

As for what we could tell each other if we reach the end of the conflict, at the very least, we could and should say, Thank God it’s all over.

However, the legal side of the matter should be analysed at the level of good experts. I believe this is obvious.

I would like to reiterate that we can only sign such documents with those who are fully legitimate to do so. There are many options, such as the Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada, and possibly even Zelensky himself. We need to analyse the documents and what legal consequences their signing would have.

Once again, there must be the will to do it. As for the procedure, there are ways to coordinate it.

Pierre Ausseill: I also asked about the economy, if you recall.

Vladimir Putin: Regarding the [Russian] economy, as Mark Twain said – I think it was he who said it, “The reports of my death are greatly exaggerated.” That is how he joked about it once. The same here. There were forecasts of our defeat on the battlefield, and it was even said – I think it was the former US President who said it, that the Russian economy was in tatters. Don’t engage in wishful thinking. Make your assessments based on real figures, real trends and the real situation, in this case the real situation in our economy.

How much has the EU’s economy grown over the past three years? Don’t wrack your brains – it has grown by about 3 percent. And how has the Russian economy grown? It has grown by 10 percent, three times more than the EU’s economy. Germany, the leading economy of the eurozone, has grown by less than 1 percent, while the Russian economy has grown by 1 percent last year, even if this is a modest figure, and it continues to grow.

It is true that there are issues in terms of the overall macroeconomic landscape, primarily the rising inflation. It is for this reason that the Central Bank and the financial bloc have taken several decisions – and these decisions were quite harsh – to suppress inflation and improve macroeconomic indicators. The decision to raise the key interest rate was one of them. However, these measures have been effective and yielded results. As of April, the economy has not fully recovered to where it was a year before that, but we are making steady progress towards reaching the planned, or to be more exact target indicator of 5.4 percent. This is a positive development in itself.

At the same time, industrial output has continued to grow, and so did real household incomes. In fact, real household incomes increased by over 28 percent which is largely due to higher salaries, and I am talking about real, not nominal, wages. There was an increase of over 25 percent. We have been fulfilling all the social commitments we have to the people of Russia, including by adjusting for inflation pensions, benefits, minimum wages, and entitlements to support families with children, and so on and so forth.

We had a plan to reduce the number of people living below the poverty line to seven percent by 2030. In 2025, we achieved this objective ahead of schedule and went even further by reaching a level of 6.7 percent.

I want to go back to Mark Twain’s quote. Let me reiterate that our economic and financial agencies have been effective in their actions and delivering results. It goes without saying that we intentionally went down this road, of course, when the Central Bank decided to significantly increase the key interest rate. It has already cut the interest rate several times and brought it down to 14.5 percent. Many believe that this is too little, and that we need more cuts. I will not make any comments in this regard right now, since this can turn into a lengthy debate. I have been following these discussions between the Government’s economic bloc and the Central Bank, etc. But the results are there.

We did this on purpose while understanding that this would lead to a decrease in capital investment. How could it be otherwise? Of course, investment was expected to shrink with the Central Bank’s key interest rate at this level. Our decision to cool down the economy was intentional. Some may argue that there was too much cooling, or that more needs to be done in this regard. Still, we did this on purpose. We do not want hyperinflation of up to 30, 60, or 70 percent, as it happened in some countries. We are fighting for the overall health of the Russian economy.

I would like to draw your attention to another important indicator. Our public debt is equal to 15.6 percent. How big is it in France? It exceeds 100 percent, probably. I think it is 112 percent, approximately. But we have 15.6 percent. All this gives us reasons to believe that we are headed in the right direction and can feel confident.

Andrei Kondrashov: Reuters, UK, Mark Bendeich, please.

Global Managing Editor, World News, at Reuters news agency (Great Britain) Mark Bendeich: Thank you, Mr President.

I’ve got two questions. The first is on Ukraine. How do you rate President Trump’s performance in trying to end the conflict in Ukraine? Whether he has become distracted by the Iran war and indeed whether he miscalculated there, perhaps at the cost of pushing forward talks over Ukraine?

My second question is about your own political future, Mr President. You have been running the country now, been in power for 26 years, and whether you plan to stay in office until 2036, I think under the Constitution. And if you don’t mind me saying so, you look quite fit, whether you feel you have the stamina and the health to go the distance to 2036?

Thank you.

Vladimir Putin: Only God knows whether any of us – you, me, everyone in this room – stay healthy enough to survive until tomorrow or the day after, let alone to solve the problems we face and reach the goals we have set. That is for starters.

As for my own plans: yes, the Constitution allows me to run for re-election in 2030. But frankly, it is far too early to talk about that. I am not even thinking about it right now – I tell you completely honestly. The country faces many large, far-reaching, and urgent issues. The way to address them is not to think about that, it is to think about Russia’s future. That’s the first point.

Now, on Ukraine and what the US President has done to try to resolve the conflict. I have said this before, and I do not mind repeating it. I believe President Trump is genuinely committed to resolving the Ukraine crisis. He has already said publicly that he did not expect it to be so difficult. And yes – from the outside, some things may look straightforward, but once you dig in, you realise there are many unknown factors, and they matter.

Now, settling another crisis, the one concerning Iran is indeed urgent. We see that the US administration is distracted and forced to focus primarily on that issue. But here is the difference: the Ukraine crisis is primarily local, though I regret that European countries are trying to give it a global dimension. The crisis around Iran, by contrast, is clearly global. Just look at the impact the closure of the Strait of Hormuz has on the world economy. So of course, the administration is giving it serious attention. That said, President Trump’s proposals, as I have already mentioned, could very well form the basis of a peace agreement.

So to answer your question of whether the administration was on the right track – yes. Those proposals require compromise – for both countries. For Russia, too. And we have broadly agreed to those compromises. We just need to convince the Ukrainian side. That’s all. Overall, I believe these proposals could serve as the foundation for an agreement between Russia and Ukraine, and could end the conflict.

Global Managing Editor, World News, at Reuters news agency (Great Britain) Mark Bendeich: Sorry, just one follow-up question on Iran. Do you think Russia could play a role in terms of settling that dispute in particular in relation to the highly enriched uranium?

Vladimir Putin: I believe so. We harbour no desire to impose our assistance; however, our proposal is well known to the US administration, as well as to our Iranian friends and partners. In 2015, Russia played an entirely positive role by facilitating the removal of enriched uranium from Iran to the Russian Federation, thereby establishing the foundation for the JCPOA– effectively resolving the crisis. This endeavour was supported by the American administration of the time, implemented successfully, and led to a de-escalation of the situation.

What is the current state of affairs? The uranium is present on Iranian territory, a fact currently undisputed by any party. The question that therefore arises is: what follows? The uranium would immediately come under the control of the IAEA, and consequently, the entire international community – including the United States and Israel – would become engaged in the process of eliminating highly enriched uranium. This is because everything would be under their purview – effectively, under IAEA control – while all parties contribute to the IAEA’s efforts, and there is universal trust in the IAEA. Immediately, the uranium is accounted for in terms of volume and quantity, control is established, and the process of de-enrichment and dilution commences.

We possess the capability to undertake this now as well – if you will. However, I reiterate, this decision rests with all parties seeking a resolution to the crisis. We have successfully implemented this before and stand ready to do so again. Our relations with Iran are good and based on trust; Iran is a friendly country. It is no secret that we are implementing a project there to construct the Bushehr nuclear power plant. We have completed one unit, which is now operational, and are continuing with further construction. I believe that the Iranian leadership and the Iranian people repose complete trust in us.

Incidentally, this uranium could, in the future, be diluted and utilised for peaceful nuclear programmes within Iran under the oversight of the international community and the IAEA. I think that this constitutes a viable option. In this regard, I believe that Iran would find such a resolution acceptable, and all other parties involved – who may harbour certain suspicions – should also find it satisfactory. The uranium would be declared, removed, and placed under control. Wherein lies the problem? I see none. I may be mistaken in some respects, yet I struggle to see what could be objectionable to anyone in this scenario.

Furthermore, initially – since we have broached the topic, I will elaborate – initially, and admittedly not this year – there was unanimous agreement. Subsequently, positions hardened on all sides. We said: “Very well. If not, then not. Please, resolve this among yourselves.” The proposals remain on the table – please, we are prepared to proceed as we did in 2015. If that is not the case, we hope that the parties involved in this conflict will find an alternative solution. Should another solution emerge, we would be most pleased. And if our assistance is required, we would gladly support any solution of this nature that leads to a de-escalation of the situation.

Andrei Kondrashov: Mr President, we have already been speaking for an hour and a half. Would you allow us another 20 minutes?

Vladimir Putin: We can do a couple of questions. The President of Uzbekistan is due to arrive shortly, and we have an event scheduled – the launch of a nuclear power plant construction project in Uzbekistan.

Andrei Kondrashov: I have already caught the eye of three colleagues – Martin Romanczyk, Vijay Joshi, and Jose Manuel Sanz Mingote.

Vladimir Putin: Well, by all means.

Andrei Kondrashov: Three more questions, colleagues, and then we’ll conclude.

Vladimir Putin: Please.

Andrei Kondrashov: Martin, go ahead please.

Martin Romanczyk (retranslated): Mr President, two years ago, when asked whether Russia was planning to attack NATO, you said that such claims were nonsense. At least, that is how your remarks were reported. Yet today, amid US plans not to deploy intermediate-range missiles in Germany and new details concerning the redeployment of American troops from Europe to Asia, there is still speculation that Russia could attack NATO territory in the foreseeable future. How do you assess such claims?

Vladimir Putin: You know, anyone who seriously considers such claims should ask themselves a simple question: What for? Why would Russia need that? It’s clear – the conflict in Ukraine. At the heart of the conflict are the coup d’état and the subsequent suppression of everything associated with Russia as well as of a significant portion of the country’s population who refused to accept the outcome of that coup. Ukraine is, after all, a largely Russian-speaking country. Even those so-called nationalists speak Russian at home.

But that is not really the point. The point is that the coup was followed by a series of developments inside Ukraine itself. In the end – and I will not go into all the details of how this unfolded, including the Minsk agreements and everything that followed – we found ourselves in a situation where it was necessary to support those people living in the territories that did not recognise the outcome of the coup. At the same time, there were ongoing efforts to bring Ukraine into NATO.

Just think about it. We were simply deceived – openly deceived. You know that perfectly well. Since 1991, we were repeatedly told that NATO would not move one inch to the east. This was stated at the time by NATO Secretary General, a citizen of the Federal Republic of Germany – I must admit I cannot recall his surname at the moment. That was the assurance we were given.

But what does Europe have to do with this? Why would Russia attack Europe or go to war with NATO? What would be the purpose? As I have said before, these claims are not merely nonsense. In my view, they are a deliberate provocation designed to create the impression of a threat that does not actually exist. The objective is to persuade their populations to increase defence spending and, as a first step, to pay for the regime that seized power in Kiev. That, I believe, is the real explanation. It is not simply nonsense; it is a provocation.

What surprises me, however, is that some people in European countries appear to believe it. I find that astonishing. The whole notion is simply absurd. It would be amusing if it were not so sad.

We have consistently stated that one of the objectives of our special military operation is the denazification of Ukraine. Yet, from various quarters, we have been asked: “What do you mean by denazification? What is this “denazification” you refer to? You are speaking irrationally. (And they say we are speaking irrationally.) Why denazify Ukraine?”

Colleagues, let me be clear. This has been plain to see for all, yet scarcely anyone addresses it – the reburial of Nazis and nationalists who, during the Second World War, exterminated Jews, Poles, and Russians in Ukraine. How many, you ask? In my view, a million Jews were exterminated in Ukraine. A million innocent souls. And now, in Ukraine, their [Nazis’ and nationalists’] remains have been reburied with military honours and a gun salute, hailed as heroes of Ukraine. Only Poland reacted, albeit feebly; Israel – even more feebly. Everyone seeks not to notice, shamefully ignoring the truth. And who is responsible for this? The current head of the Kiev regime, ethnically Jewish. His grandfather, who fought against Nazism, must be turning in his grave.

There exists an organisation of Ukrainian nationalists known as the UPA [Ukrainian Insurgent Army] – an entirely pro-Nazi entity. Its name is currently being bestowed upon active units within the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Observe: to the best of my knowledge, it has been enshrined in legislation, or is on the brink of being enshrined, that Nazi propaganda is forbidden. However, the Ukrainian authorities should be reminded that enshrining it into law is insufficient – the law must be implemented effectively.

Listen, I understand that the so-called collective West does not want Russia to grow stronger. The collective West wants to use Ukraine so that Russia does not defend its national interests so vigorously, that it should know its place, and so forth. But you must understand what a threat the revival of Nazism poses to everyone. Not only is weaponry spreading from the territory of Ukraine across the world – that is already a matter of record. Not only is corruption flourishing there, it has taken over everything, it has sunk such deep roots. But Nazism is being revived. What then is to be done about that?

Colleagues say that Ukraine should be part of the European Union, or an associated member, or in some other capacity. Very well, so be it. But one ought at least to reflect upon this. These are facts; this happened just recently. A few days ago, one of the Nazis was reburied. It was by his hands that Jews, Poles, Russians, and Roma people were exterminated – a million people. Yet he was reburied with military honours, with a gun salute, and – silence.

I understand that some countries want to use everything in their fight against Russia. But this is a threat to everyone. One ought to think about this.

Therefore, as regards the notion of Russia attacking Europe – this is, of course, nonsense, but not only that. It is also a provocation and misinformation aimed at deceiving their own populations in order to secure funding for the fight against Russia and for the militarisation of their own economies.

CEO and Editor-in-Chief at The Press Trust of India (India) Vijay Joshi: Mr President, earlier in this interaction you spoke about Russia’s relations with China. You said it was not born yesterday; it has grown over and been fostered over centuries. India has a similar relationship with China, but probably of a different nature. It is a difficult relationship. At the same time, India has a difficult relationship on its western border with Pakistan. I think you see where I am going with this. Pakistan today is helped by China in military terms. About 80 percent of Pakistan’s military hardware is of Chinese origin. China is also supplying technology, advanced technology to Pakistan, intelligence, and military hardware. So, this is causing some concern in India. You have very good relations with both China and Pakistan. Is there anything you would like to do at all in ensuring that India’s security interests are not compromised?

And a related question to that is that I just heard today that the S-400’s latest battalion has been delivered to India. A fifth one remains. What is the advanced technology that the fifth battalion will include? And if you can give maybe a definitive timeline on the joint development of the Su-57 stealth fighter and the delivery of the Akula-class nuclear submarine? Thank you.

Vladimir Putin: Of course, we are well aware of all the potential issues and challenges, even if not all of them, but the main challenges dealing with the situation along the border and in terms of Pakistan – India relations – we know them. You said that China has Pakistan under its total control, but I do not think so. First, Pakistan is quite a big country, and Pakistan has multifaceted ties. Of course, matters dealing with Pakistan’s cooperation with the People’s Republic of China have a lot of importance for the country. But everyone seeks to expand relations with China. This is one of the world’s largest economies and it is second to none around the world in terms of purchasing power parity. It is the number one economy by this indicator. India is third, and Russia is fourth in terms of purchasing power parity. By the way, this also answers the question from your French colleague about the state of the Russian economy. China, the United States, India and Russia are the world’s top four countries in terms of purchasing power parity. By the way, we have surpassed all European countries, as well as Japan.

What an ingrate thing it would be to interfere in these sensitive and multifaceted relations between two countries, India and China. That said, we maintain contacts with our friends in both India and China.

What I would like to point out in this context without going into much detail, since it would be inappropriate for me, is that I can assure you that both Prime Minister Modi and President of the PRC Xi Jinping are both committed to addressing all matters of mutual interest, including in terms of border relations. I have no doubt about this whatsoever.

Russia has special relations with both China and India, as you have said. This is not a problem for anyone, trust me. It took decades to forge these ties, decade after decade of work. It all came together quite naturally. Relations between Russia and India do not cause any trouble to China, and the same goes for Russia’s relations with China not causing any trouble to India, while everyone stands to benefit from the three countries working together.

We are talking about BRICS. Do you know where BRICS was born? It was here, in St Petersburg. It was here that I suggested having a meeting between the Chinese leader, the head of the Indian Government and yours truly. And all three of us had a meeting here. This is how the RIC – Russia, India, China – format was born. It goes without saying that we found topics on which we could agree, and agree we did. Brazil joined us later by asking to become part of this trilateral format. This is how we got the BRIC group. After that South Africa followed, and we got BRICS. And the group continued expanding. This goes to say that when we come together and talk to each other, we are able to reach agreements.

Let me reiterate that no one questions Russia’s cooperation with China or Russia’s cooperation with India. Everyone knows the multi-pronged ties we have in terms of military technical cooperation. It is true that we are working with India, including on developing the latest weapons systems. Everyone knows the BrahMos intermediate-range missiles. They now exist in sea-based and ground-based declinations. And the list goes on, and we are expanding it.

As for the Su-57, there was a time when we offered our friends from India to work together on developing this plane. This is a fifth-generation plane, and I think that it is currently the best in the world. Our Indian friends told us to go ahead and do it on our own, while they would wait and see. This plane could have been our joint manufacturing venture, but we developed it on our own. Of course, we are ready to work with India by supplying these planes and developing them. The sky is the limit in this regard, and we are free from any restrictions.

The same goes for air defence systems. Having specific hardware may be important, but creating an air defence system has even greater importance. What does this mean? This means being able to engage various types of targets at various altitudes, including low-altitude, slow-flying and high-altitude targets. It is instrumental that all these elements are part of a single information system working in real time. This is a formidable, tech-intensive task. Russia is now working on perfecting this system. There are still pending questions, but this is a unique experience. No one else has any experience of this kind. We have it, and we are ready to share it with both our Chinese and Indian friends. And share we do. There is work in progress on all these fronts, and we will continue working with India too.

Andrei Kondrashov: Colleagues, one final question, please. Keep it brief.

José Manuel Sanz Mingote of EFE news agency.

José Manuel Sanz Mingote (retranslated): Thank you very much.

I would like to ask a brief question to clarify whether I understood your answer correctly. Are you ruling out a suspension of military action for starting negotiations?

My second question concerns Latin America. Over the past few months, have you had any contacts with the United States regarding Cuban issue?

And regarding what happened in Venezuela. Have you mentioned the capture of President Nicolás Maduro? What will Russia’s response be?

Vladimir Putin: As regards contacts on the Cuban issue, I will answer your question directly. You asked whether we have had contacts with the US administration regarding the Cuban issue. Yes, we had, but I do not wish to comment further.

As you know, we recently delivered a tanker carrying oil products to Cuba. Cuba is our friendly nation; we have maintained longstanding relations with it for decades. The US administration is aware of this, and our contacts with Cuba continue.

As for the suspension of hostilities in order to begin negotiations, such a suspension is not necessary for starting negotiations. Negotiations can take place while military actions continue. We have already had such a situation: negotiations took place while the military operations continued.

So where is the issue? Speaking candidly, I have already outlined the key factors that shape the course of the conflict when answering the question posed by an American colleague. There are many factors at play. Russian forces are advancing every day, and anyone following developments closely can see that new settlements are coming under the control of the Russian Armed Forces on a daily basis. Recently, I repeat, nearly 2,500 square kilometres – specifically, 2,440 square kilometres – have come under Russian control. Under these circumstances, it is understandable that the Ukrainian side would prefer Russian troops to halt their advance.

Our forces continue to make advances daily in the Zaporozhye Region by kilometres – say, by 1,200, 1,300 or 800 metres along the front and in depth. Obviously, there is a desire to stop this advance. However, rather than merely halting military actions, it would be better to end the war altogether by reaching the compromises that were discussed in Anchorage.

Please go ahead.

News Director for Europe & Africa at The Associated Press (USA) James Jordan: Thank you, Mr President. One more question about Russia’s relationships with its European neighbours. Associated Press reporting has tracked 191 incidents of malign or illegal activity across Europe since 2022. Western officials attribute these to Russia and its proxies, and they include….

Vladimir Putin: Do you mean Russia’s activity on the territory of European countries?

James Jordan: Correct, Russia and its proxies. These actions include sabotage, attempted assassination, cyberattacks and influence operations. Western officials say this is just the tip of the iceberg, and these are the ones that have been tracked or proven. Does this mean that Russia is already waging a war against the West and does it not risk escalation?

Vladimir Putin: This means only one thing: an attempt by certain political figures in Western European countries to push ahead with their aggressive plans against the Russian Federation.

You mentioned cyberattacks and other attempts, and you pointed out that you are only talking about proven, verified facts. What does this prove? Name even one proven fact. How did one prime minister put it? She said: “highly likely.”

Andrei Kondrashov: “Highly likely.”

Vladimir Putin: “Highly likely.” Everything you have described is highly likely. Where is even one fact? There is not a single one. That means there is no desire to engage with Russia as an equal partner. But that will have to happen – we are in no hurry. As the saying goes, even if you put nine pregnant women together, the baby still will not be born in a month. The situation needs time to mature. I believe that is where we are heading. And it seems to me that it is gradually maturing.

We, I repeat, are ready. We need to stop these mutual accusations. And if the Europeans want to work with us, then they should drop their colonial attitude, talk to Russia as an equal partner, and look for solutions together. Even with highly complex issues – issues that need to be resolved in the interests of both Russia and our European partners – we are ready for that.

Please.

Andrei Kondrashov: Thank you very much, Mr President.

Vladimir Putin: You should’t treat women like that or end this meeting like that. Proceed, please.

Shohrat Aref (retranslated): Thank you.

I would like to hear your views on the energy crisis caused by the crisis around Iran and its outlook.

Vladimir Putin: If you addressed this question to members of the US administration, they would probably not answer it because I have a feeling that they have not found the solution yet. However, it is obvious that the Iranian people have demonstrated that their interests must be also taken into consideration in the resolution of such crises. The Iranian people have demonstrated cohesion and determination to fight. This factor must certainly be taken into consideration in the final resolution of these problems.

Of course, the situation is not simple for us from the political perspective, in part because we have developed very good and friendly relations with Arab countries, including Persian Gulf states, over the past decades. We always emphasise this in our contacts with our Iranian friends. I can tell you frankly that since the start of the conflict, especially since it began during the month of Ramadan, we have been urging our Iranian friends to refrain from military actions against other Islamic countries, especially in the holy month of Ramadan.

But the logic and dynamics of events took a different turn. We hope that the efforts of the US administration and President Trump, and the consistent stance of Iran’s spiritual leader to protect the interests of his country and look for a compromise – we see that both sides are doing this – we hope that these efforts will succeed and an end will be put to the conflict. If anything depends on Russia, we are always ready to lend a hand. If not, we will celebrate together with everyone else when this crisis ends.

It is nothing more than an unsubstantiated allegation that Russia is well-nigh the sole beneficiary of this conflict because of growing energy prices. It is true that prices are growing, which we can see, and we understand that our companies will benefit from this, to a certain extent. But such benefits are temporary and short-lived, whereas we would like to develop long-term relations with all our partners on the solid basis of mutual interest. In this case, we are interested in the conflict to end as soon as possible. It is gratifying that the ceasefire regime is being maintained, even if despite certain problems. We are doing everything we can to help this bring out an overall settlement.

We maintain contacts with all our friends and, as I have said, we will do everything we can if our assistance is needed to end the conflict.

This will be all. Thank you very much.

Andrei Kondrashov: Mr President, thank you very much for this frank conversation. All the best.

Meeting with President of Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs Alexander Shokhin

2026-05-26T20:20:18+04:00

Vladimir Putin held a working meeting with President of the All-Russian Public Organisation Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs (RSPP) Alexander Shokhin.

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Where shall we begin, Mr Shokhin?

President of the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs Alexander Shokhin: Mr President, I would like to begin by thanking you. On May 8, you signed an executive order to bestow a high state decoration, the Order For Valiant Labour, on the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs.

This year, the RSPP marks its 35^th anniversary. Of course, it is quite heartening for us to know that you and the Russian state appreciate RSPP’s contribution as the leading business association and a national association of employers.

Mr President, I would like to report on the way we have been carrying out the instructions you gave us as part of the RSPP’s congress. It took place on March 26 and we submitted several proposals to you, which you used to issue your instructions.

I would like to begin by telling you that we are working on bringing up to date the institution of the commissioner for entrepreneurs’ rights. During our meeting in late March, you suggested that it was time to upgrade this institution. Moreover, the most effective option would be to transform the commissioner’s functions into a public and state institution rather than keeping it as a purely state institution. We held a series of consultations with the Presidential Executive Office and the business community to draft the corresponding proposals for amending the Law on the Commissioners for Entrepreneurs’ Rights.

Vladimir Putin: Are you suggesting establishing an autonomous non-profit organisation to replace the commissioner’s offices?

Alexander Shokhin: Yes, and here is the chart which shows the way we would like to advance on this matter. This will not be an exclusively public institution. Instead, it will be a public and a state institution at the same time, because we believe that the state must be involved in this autonomous non-profit organisation’s operations as its founder. The leading business associations, which, apart from the RSPP, include the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Delovaya Rossiya, and OPORA Russia, will also stay on as the founders.

Today, this autonomous non-profit organisation operates as a structure with a primary focus on processing applications from businesses. Moreover, all our law enforcement agencies, and the Prosecutor General’s Office adopted regulations for working with these applications. This ensures that complaints dealing with excessive pressure are reviewed in the central offices instead of being sent to the very level that is targeted in these complaints.

We believe it is possible to consider transferring the office’s functions to the bodies serving the commissioner’s needs. In our opinion, the commissioner should permanently head the supervisory council of this non-profit organisation.

Mr President, if you consent in principle to this arrangement – as I have said, we have worked on this matter with the Presidential Executive Office, including Anton Vaino, Maxim Oreshkin and Larisa Brychyova – we have drafted legislative amendments to this effect. In addition to the law on commissioners, there may be small, targeted changes to a couple of other laws. For example, the funding is currently processed through the Civic Chamber while it could be directly routed through the Administrative Directorate.

Similarly, if the commissioner’s post is not a government position, certain wording in the law will have to be slightly relaxed. In particular, the commissioner currently has the power to suspend municipal bodies’ decisions for six months and also to file motions with the court to cancel decisions. However, we believe that this power could be frozen for now. Since the commissioner is not a government body, the arrangement should be different.

Vladimir Putin: Do you believe it is excessive?

Alexander Shokhin: Yes, I do. Of course, it would be right to adopt this law as soon as possible. Why? First of all, because, since Boris Titov was transferred to another post – he is now the Presidential Plenipotentiary Envoy for Sustainable Development and Relations with International Organisations in this area – this position has been vacant for quite some time. And since all the parties interested in preserving and increasing the effectiveness of this institution agree with this arrangement, corresponding draft laws could be passed rather quickly, provided that you submit them.

Vladimir Putin: Mr Shokhin, I agree with this part. Let’s do it.

Alexander Shokhin: Thank you.

Regarding other instructions, Mr President, we have discussed this several times, including in March. I am referring to the statute of limitations on privatisation deals. I would like to thank you for supporting the respective draft law. The Government also upheld it. We worked closely with the Ministry of Economic Development and the Presidential Council for Codification and Enhancement of Civil Legislation. The State-Legal Directorate also supported this arrangement, but without your personal support, I think the approval process would have continued for a long time. The fact that this draft law is being considered by the State Duma and may be passed by the time of the St Petersburg Economic Forum can also be a positive outcome.

As we have reported to you several times, this law does not restrict opportunities for law enforcement agencies or the judicial system to fight against dishonest businesses and those involved in corruption schemes. There can be no statute of limitations in those cases. Nevertheless, the privatisation deals themselves and applying the Civil Code norms to them, in my opinion, can give certain stability to business operations, which we really need, unfortunately, given the current global uncertainty.

There is another topic that deals with elevating the status of employers’ associations. We do not support imposing an obligation in our laws for specific employers to join these associations. However, we believe that the existing norms regarding economically and socially significant entities set specific criteria, which include having four thousand employees or more, earning a specific level of revenue, holding assets, etc. According to our estimates, about 600 major corporations fall within this category. We believe that having them join regional, sectoral, inter-sectoral or national employers’ associations would be a gesture of assuming greater social responsibility on their part. These are the leading companies in our economy, and they must also be at the forefront in terms of corporate social responsibility at the same time.

We believe that having these entities join the associations of employers would make these associations stronger, while also helping companies improve their image and reputation.

This would enable us to create a whole system of employers’ associations so that every association, be it regional, sectoral, etc., can obtain membership in a higher-level association. This would create a whole system of interconnected associations of employers.

There is one more topic, if we return to the subject of defending the rights of entrepreneurs. We raised it in March at the congress, and we had a meeting in a narrower format. It concerns easing judicial restraints. In particular, in terms of injunctions, there has been a policy for quite some time now to have fewer arrests while prioritising other provisional measures instead of placing people in detention. There has been an instruction to this effect.

We are currently working with the Ministry of Justice and other government institutions, as well as the Presidential Executive Office, to establish a single set of definitions. What does it mean to manage an organisation? Or what does it mean when we say that a private entity engages in business activity? This is a key topic, and you were the one who proposed amending the laws to ensure that provisional measures do not become an obstacle for economic and business activity. We must have clear definitions so that the courts, law enforcement agencies, and investigative bodies have a shared understanding of what this means.

We would like to raise the topic of using bail as a provisional measure in this context. We worked with the Government and law enforcement agencies to come to a shared understanding on this matter. It is our belief that bail has not been used much so far because courts do not know how to determine the amount of the bail. There was an agreement among us that the bail must be set depending on the extent of the damage.

Apart from bail, there can be provisional measures other than arrest, for example, a travel restriction order or a guarantee, which means that this can include a series of measures.

There are several other topics currently under discussion. In particular, we are working on a mechanism for interaction between businesses and the government – specifically, the Ministry of Defence – in countering terrorist threats. Major enterprises are naturally interested in protecting their facilities and operational areas, and all responsible large companies are paying close attention to this issue. At the same time, a number of practical matters still require resolution. These concern procurement mechanisms for weapons systems, not only standard 7.62 mm small arms, but also heavier equipment, including electronic warfare systems, laser technologies, and other types of armaments, as I have already mentioned.

In addition, businesses are prepared to finance this work, but there is a need for a clear and transparent mechanism for managing such funding. This could take the form of a dedicated foundation or another type of targeted financing structure.

We are also facing challenges related to the recruitment of reservists assigned to guard these facilities. A corresponding decision has already been adopted, but in practice reservists may be assigned to one location today and reassigned elsewhere tomorrow. As soon as they begin taking responsibility for a facility, new operational demands inevitably emerge, which is understandable.

As for the economic dimension, delays sometimes arise in the fulfilment of certain obligations affecting businesses, including those connected with state support measures. Naturally, companies that are forced to devote significant time and resources to restoring damaged facilities should not face additional sanctions during that recovery period. It would therefore be advisable to establish mechanisms allowing for the suspension of penalties, the deferral of tax payments, and other forms of temporary relief.

We are also actively working on cultural heritage preservation – a topic you have raised not only at the congress, but on many other occasions as well. A dedicated commission for the protection of cultural heritage sites has now been established. We are currently preparing a registry of sites already under business management and examining ways to encourage companies to take a more active role in this work.

At the same time, several regulatory issues have emerged that we intend to discuss with the Government. In particular, restoration requirements should take into account the actual condition of a site. One approach is needed when only a foundation remains, and another when the work is limited to restoring façades and interiors.

Many companies are already viewing the preservation of cultural heritage sites as an important element of regional development, not only to improve living conditions and prevent population outflow, but also to promote tourism in the regions where they operate.

In December, during our meeting with the business community, Mr President, we discussed environmental issues, including payments for environmental impact. I would like to report that your intervention provided significant momentum. Together with the Ministry of Natural Resources, we are now finalising work on possible adjustments to regulatory decisions and payment schedules in this area.

In conclusion, I would like to note that this format of direct engagement – where we discuss specific matters, you issue instructions, and we move promptly towards legislative or governmental decisions – has proven highly effective. I would also like to express my appreciation to your Executive Office for maintaining close oversight of these instructions. Frankly speaking, the Control Directorate does not let the relevant agencies relax. Special thanks are due for this work.

Thank you for your continued involvement in matters related to business support and the promotion of investment and entrepreneurial activity. This is of great value to us.

Vladimir Putin: Mr Shokhin, we will continue working together to improve the legal framework and administrative conditions for doing business in Russia.

I am also grateful to you for everything that has been done recently. I hope that your proposals for further strengthening the role of the ombudsman in charge of protecting the rights of the business community will soon be implemented and prove beneficial.

As for the issue we have been discussing for several years – the restoration of statutes of limitations for certain transactions, including privatisation deals – I would like to stress that I believe there is only one category of offence to which statutes of limitations should neither apply nor be applied: crimes against humanity. In all other cases, a statute of limitations is necessary.

In fact, the institution of the statute of limitations is intended to safeguard the interests of both the state and society. However, if it is not applied at all, this ultimately runs counter to those very interests. Therefore, it is important that these matters be regulated properly and in a timely manner. I will do my utmost to ensure that all necessary decisions are adopted as quickly as possible.

Thank you.

Alexander Shokhin: Thank you.

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Vladimir Putin congratulated Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia on his Name Day

2026-05-24T14:04:28+04:00

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Your Holiness, good afternoon.

Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia: Good afternoon.

Vladimir Putin: Your Holiness, I would like to congratulate you on your Name Day, the feast day of your heavenly patron, Saint Cyril, Equal-to-the-Apostles. As is well known, he was not only the creator of the alphabet – and, in essence, the foundation of our written language – but was also rightly regarded as a philosopher, a man of profound intellect and great learning.

Your Holiness, today your experience in fostering inter-church dialogue is especially important. But no less significant for us, and for Russia as a whole, is the strengthening of interfaith harmony within the country. This has always been essential, and in the current circumstances it is particularly vital. We must preserve the unity of the multinational and multiconfessional people of Russia.

Thank you very much for your efforts.

Patriarch Kirill: I sincerely thank you, Mr President, for your words and for your leadership, particularly in your approach to church affairs and to the religious life of our nation as a whole.

You are someone who understands the importance of the religious factor, and throughout history religion has always been among the most powerful forces shaping society. When ideological arguments lose their influence, it is always religion that helps unite people and inspire resistance against enemies.

And today, by the grace of God, Russia has preserved its religious beliefs and spiritual foundations. I do not wish to compare our country with others, but Russia represents a unique example of a modern civilisation that has not renounced its history, traditions, or faith, while at the same time continuing to advance in science, culture, sports, and many other fields, often achieving results no less significant, and in some areas even greater, than those of other nations. And, of course, your tremendous contribution to this process as the leader of our country cannot be overstated.

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Ceremony to present state decorations

2026-05-21T21:48:38+04:00

The President presented the Russian Federation state decorations in a ceremony in the Kremlin’s St Catherine Hall.

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Good afternoon, friends,

Presenting state decorations in Moscow, in the Kremlin, in the heart of Russia, undoubtedly carries special meaning. This solemn ceremony serves to recognise the merits of outstanding citizens of Russia, their selfless labour, unique talent, exceptional courage, and the achievements and breakthroughs that our contemporaries are making in a diverse range of fields.

These successes directly contribute to the progress of our nation as a whole, to the development of Russia, and will serve the state, the people, and our descendants for many decades to come.

Ivan Dedov has been awarded the Order of St Andrew the Apostle the First-Called. His contribution to the theory and clinical practice of modern endocrinology has truly historic significance. Academician Dedov has in many respects defined the development of this vital field of medicine. His name is associated with systemic approaches to the organisation of medical care, and to the prevention and treatment of diabetes mellitus and other diseases.

Today, we are joined by representatives of Russian science, culture, education and healthcare, as well as non-profit organisations. Our deepest respect, however, is reserved for the participants in the special military operation – people who are defending the national interests and borders of our Fatherland.

The Gold Star medals of Heroes of Russia are presented to Lieutenant Colonel Ivan Berestovsky and Deputy Prime Minister of the Donetsk People’s Republic, in the recent past a combat officer, Ilya Yemelyanov.

The Badge of Merit – the Cross of St George, I degree – is presented to our soldiers, our brave soldiers Nikolai Kumenov and Yevgeny Rochev. For the first time in contemporary Russia, they have become full cavaliers of this decoration.

Friends,

We all bow our heads to the feat of those who gave their lives for the Motherland. The titles of Heroes of Russia were posthumously conferred upon Vasily Marzoyev and Alexander Rezanov.

Service to the state, society and the people unites all those who have achieved exceptional heights in their profession and succeeded in their chosen vocation. Present in this hall is a whole constellation of creators, workers, and masters. I thank each and every one of you and wish to pay special tribute to the Heroes of Labour of Russia.

Among them are heads of agricultural enterprises, Fyodor Buldyzhov from the Krasnodar Territory and Georgy Svid from the Ryazan Region, alongside Tatyana Kozhevnikova, a milking machine operator from the Stavropol Territory.

Heroes of Labour also include Director General of the Rubin Central Design Bureau for Marine Engineering in St Petersburg Igor Vilnit – those familiar with the Navy will appreciate the vital role this bureau plays in safeguarding our nation’s interests – and Vitaly Ignatenko, widely recognised across the country, who serves as head of the Public Television of Russia.

Representatives of the legendary Yury Gagarin cosmonaut corps are making a substantial contribution to the development of the manned space programme. Alexander Gorbunov has been awarded the Gold Star medal of the Hero of Russia and the honorary title of Pilot-Cosmonaut of the Russian Federation: during an extended mission as part of an international crew, he displayed courage and exemplary professional competence.

We have always taken great pride in and felt deep admiration for large, close-knit families who have devoted themselves to raising children. Their way of life is founded on mutual love and respect, goodness and unwavering parental devotion. The high title of Mother Heroine has been conferred upon Olga Lobova from Moscow. Together with her husband, an Orthodox priest, she is raising eleven children.

I am delighted to see here today distinguished figures of Russian culture, Yury Antonov and Nadezhda Babkina. Through your creative endeavours, you support and inspire the public and bring joy to Russian families. This exemplifies the immense value of art and the significance of your talents.

Friends, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all those who will now receive state decorations. You are strong, generous, and courageous people. Each of you has succeeded in fulfilling your aspirations and calling, and in applying your talents and intellect; you have fought, worked, created, and scaled new heights for the Motherland, for our people.

Allow me to wish you further success and all the best.

(Ceremony to present state decorations.)

<…>

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Once again, I would like to sincerely congratulate you on receiving your state decorations.

One of the speakers here mentioned how gratifying it is to be among outstanding people. And that is truly the case – among outstanding people, and among those who help cultivate excellence in others. One of the recipients quietly said to me, “I serve the working people.” And you truly do so in the very best way. We all serve working people, but you do it with utmost dedication.

Thank you very much for your work, your talent, and your achievements.

Congress of the Union of Machine Engineers of Russia

2026-05-14T19:49:53+04:00

Vladimir Putin addressed the 10^th Congress of the Union of Machine Engineers of Russia, held at the Rossiya National Centre.

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Colleagues, friends,

It is a great pleasure to be here and to take part in the work of the Congress of the Union of Machine Engineers of Russia.

It is one of our country’s largest sectoral associations, comprising such leading, backbone, and important companies as Rostec, Roscosmos, United Aircraft Corporation, Almaz-Antey, Uralvagonzavod, AvtoVAZ, and many other enterprises where numerous teams of specialists – true professionals in their field – are employed.

Naturally, in modern life and the contemporary economy, everything is important. Services are important, as are financial operations and securities; nevertheless, it is a pleasure to deal with people who are engaged in tangible work.

Mr Chemezov has just said that we have many challenges and complicated issues that need to be resolved collectively. After all, this is the 10^th anniversary congress, so I will not dwell on sombre matters – I will not speak of the key rate, nor of the need for long-term capital and the strengthening of the ruble. We meet regularly with many of you; all of this is known, and we discuss these matters with the Government and with the Central Bank – you are fully apprised of the situation. I will note that, despite all the difficulties, in recent years domestic machine engineers have been operating in challenging conditions, including the severance of ties with certain foreign counterparties and external pressure from unfriendly countries.

Nonetheless, under these circumstances, Russian companies, their managers and employees have shown flexibility and the ability to apply non-standard approaches. By reconfiguring logistics chains, replacing a number of components, and developing their own original scientific and technological solutions, they have not only maintained steady operations but also, in numerous instances, secured new positions in both domestic and foreign markets. They implement development programmes, invest in fundamental research and the strengthening of human resources.

Despite all the problems that we are all aware of and that I have just touched upon in passing, the results are substantial. By the end of last year, the output of the Russian manufacturing industry was almost 25 percent higher than in 2021.

The reason for my emphasising this is that it was after 2021, in 2022, that all the aforementioned challenges emerged.

Overall, industrial production in Russia in 2025 grew 12 percent higher than in 2021.

What does this mean? First, this demonstrates that our industry, science, and education possess tremendous potential. This provides a strong foundation for our sovereign development, high-quality economic growth, the creation of a supply-side economy and modern jobs, the strengthening of the country’s defence capabilities, and the expansion of high-tech exports.

Second, our strategic approach – the decision we made not long ago – is proving effective: not to imitate others, but to shape market trends ourselves by developing new types of competitive products. This includes the production of high-quality aircraft, railway, agricultural, and other machinery, as well as the development and rapid deployment of industrial robots, digital platforms, autonomous systems, and artificial intelligence technologies. Projects designed to stimulate demand for these products have already been launched and will continue to expand. We will undoubtedly continue to support them.

I know that many believed that the tools proposed by the Government might prove insufficient. However, these tools do exist, and many people, including those present here today, are already using them quite successfully.

At the same time, I want to emphasise once again that, while strengthening our technological sovereignty, we do not intend to isolate ourselves. On the contrary, we seek to establish and expand mutually beneficial partnerships with other countries and support initiatives by foreign partners that incorporate Russian machinery, equipment, and technological platforms. Combining the intellectual and resource potential of different countries, based on mutual respect for one another’s interests, will create additional opportunities for domestic research institutions, industrial enterprises, and even the service sector, which I have already mentioned.

At the same time, life itself – real-world developments and the challenges we have faced – have confirmed the validity of the principle that we need to independently produce critically important goods. We must possess our own “technological keys” to production processes that are essential to the economy, to improving the quality of life, and safeguarding the country’s security.

In this regard, I would like to express special thanks to the staff of the defence industry complex, which has already been mentioned today. You are confidently fulfilling the state defence order, which has grown considerably since the beginning of the special military operation, while looking to the future and launching the batch production of modern military equipment created on the basis of our combat experience. In short, you are doing everything to ensure stable supplies for our Armed Forces.

I would like to remind you that during last year’s St Petersburg International Economic Forum we formulated certain principles for strengthening our sovereignty in the area of defence and security. These include maximally broad implementation of the best technological and organisational innovations, which implies a regular analysis of not only national but also best foreign practices.

Another key principle is enhancing the speed of decision-making, implementation and production, which has been a root problem. I believe it would be no exaggeration to say that this has been going on for centuries, but we do need to pay special attention to it. The speed of decision-making and implementation is extremely important. We have no right to lag behind our partners and rivals in this regard.

The timeframe from an idea to the end product must be dramatically reduced, as it is happening in many civilian sectors. I would like to repeat that we must go beyond the formal division of companies into the defence industry complex and the civilian segment, and conventional restrictions that are hindering a quick implementation of effective solutions in production.

I am confident that our young people, who we rightly regard as our heroes, the veterans of the special military operation will help implement these principles in practice. They are people with a wealth of experience who can quickly find solutions to problems, are well-versed in the tactics of using weapons in combat conditions, and know what their comrades on the contact line need.

I am asking the Government, the concerned ministries and the heads of companies to actively assist the recruitment of such people to the national defence complex and other industrial sectors. We need to take practical efforts towards this end, expanding professional and on-site training and employment programmes. Our young people are fighting well, but we must support them and help identify talented people. I regularly meet with them. Trust me, there are many talented, modern and intelligent people among them. We must look for, identify and help them.

I would particularly like to thank our domestic enterprises and the Union of Machine Engineers, as Mr Chemezov just mentioned, for their humanitarian support for our soldiers, and also for their assistance to residents in the border regions who find themselves in difficult circumstances. Such effective, hands-on engagement with the lives of individuals, regions and the country as a whole deserves immense respect, recognition and encouragement.

And one more thing. The Union of Machine Engineers brings together more than 30 industry-specific organisations involving company executives, government representatives, members of the research and financial communities, and industry experts. Their proposals and recommendations are actively sought when it comes to addressing strategic issues of the development of our industry, from improving the regulatory framework and the technological re-equipment of enterprises, to supporting them in the face of external pressure and sanctions, and, of course, tackling staffing challenges.

I understand that the Union of Machine Engineers, in partnership with the Ministry of Education and Science, has developed a comprehensive system for training engineering personnel. It covers every stage of a specialist’s development, from careers guidance and talent spotting, through training and support, to hiring. Over the past five years, around four million school and university students, and young engineers have taken part in these programmes.

This work must certainly continue and expand, because it is focused on the future – on fostering a generation with a modern, innovative engineering mindset. These are the specialists who will be responsible for solving our country’s most pressing technological development challenges. They will make mechanical engineering enterprises – and indeed the whole of Russian industry – stronger, more resilient and more efficient.

Let me wish you every success. I am aware, and I want to stress this again, of the difficulties you face, and I know that you are overcoming them. You are doing so thanks to your organisational talent, your determination, your focus on the final result. And you are succeeding.

Thank you. I wish you all the very best in your work.

Visit to the Moscow Institute of Thermal Technology

2026-05-13T20:17:21+04:00

Vladimir Putin visited the Moscow Institute of Thermal Technology, addressed the participants of the solemn event marking the 80^th anniversary of the organisation and presented the Order For Valiant Labour to its staff.

Before the ceremony, the President toured the institute’s museum. The explanations were provided by First Deputy Director General and General Designer Yury Solomonov.

* * *

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Comrades, veterans.

I warmly congratulate you on a major milestone event, the 80^th anniversary of the Moscow Institute of Thermal Technology.

We just toured the museum displays and exhibits, and Mr Solomonov provided a detailed overview of the history of the institute, your institute, and of the stages of its development.

Indeed, in May 1946, one year after the Great Victory and one year after the conclusion of the most severe trials of the Great Patriotic War, the institute was established and became a symbol of the country’s recovery after what seemed to be irreparable losses. It became a symbol of a new breakthrough in strengthening the nation’s research, industrial and defence potential. Advanced and truly revolutionary for that time missile technology was conceived and mastered here; technology that, without exaggeration, transformed the entire history of the 20^th century, while forging the Motherland’s impenetrable nuclear shield. Together with specialists from other defence organisations and enterprises, continuous and intense work was carried out, the results of which determined the future of our country.

On this day, special words of gratitude go to veterans. We bow our heads to everyone who worked at the institute in the 1940s, 1950s, 1960s and later. Thank you very much.

As I mentioned earlier, we have just toured the museum exhibits which recount the main stages of the creation of unique weapons systems and vividly demonstrate how difficult the first steps of establishing what was effectively a new industry were, and how many unconventional engineering and design challenges had to be addressed within tight timeframes amid intense geopolitical confrontation and technological race.

Without exaggeration, thanks to the heroic and dedicated work of several generations of the institute’s employees, a sovereign school of missile systems engineering has emerged in Russia. This school has made an invaluable contribution to strengthening Russia’s defences and has laid a powerful technological and industrial foundation for decades to come. We continue to rely on the achievements made during those decades, and some of the systems remain in service to this day, as Mr Solomonov noted. I wasn’t aware of this myself, but according to him, requests come in every year: “Let us keep them, keep them.” Remarkable, but true.

Today, your institute is a leading domestic developer of solid-fuel land-based and sea-based nuclear missile systems. It was the institute’s specialists, together with other defence industry enterprises, who created and fielded strategic missile systems known the world over. The Topol-M, the Yars, and the Bulava-30 – they now form the backbone of Russia’s nuclear triad.

I should also note that the mobile ballistic missile systems you developed are on active duty and have been used effectively in combat during the special military operation.

We will certainly continue to modernise and develop our strategic nuclear forces, creating missile systems with greater combat power, capable of defeating all current and future missile defence systems.

I also want to highlight that you are actively engaged in addressing these vital challenges and are working on several promising research and development projects.

Your work on a number of projects to produce high-demand civilian products, particularly for the oil and gas industry, the transport sector, and so on, also deserves serious recognition.

Today, you have built a modern research and production base, a well-coordinated team, support programmes for young talented specialists, and a developing mentoring system.

I would like to thank General Designer Yury Solomonov and the entire institute staff for your many years of effective work and for the hugely important and impressive achievements you have made for our country. Mr Solomonov, thank you.

(Applause.)

Many challenges lie ahead. I am counting on you, my friends, on your experience, professionalism, and devotion to your country. I wish you continued success for the benefit of Russia.

Once again, my warmest greetings to all employees and veterans on this anniversary. I am pleased to have this opportunity to personally present the Order for Valiant Labor to the team of the Moscow Institute of Thermal Engineering.

Thank you very much.

(Award ceremony.)

General Designer Yury Solomonov: Mr President,

First of all, I would like to thank you most sincerely for taking the time, during this challenging period for our country, to visit an organisation that has indeed – and this is an objective assessment – accomplished a great deal to ensure our state’s strategic security.

The role of the parent organisation can hardly be overstated, of course, but I would consider no less important its contribution to the creation and consolidation of that network of enterprises which, collectively, manufacture not merely individual components or separate assemblies, but complete missile systems.

The corps of directors and the heads of these enterprises are here, and I believe that their contribution to our common cause, led, naturally, by the parent organisation, cannot be overstated.

What else would I like to say? Eighty years are now part of history. Yet, in accordance with the well-known aphorism, history comprises the steps of the past that lead us into the future.

The President has outlined the new tasks that the state has set before us. This, without any doubt, represents a mark of trust, and trust, as is well known, entails responsibility.

I wish to express not merely confidence, but absolute conviction that, as before, we will fulfil everything entrusted to us to the requisite standard and, furthermore, in strict accordance with the assignments that the Ministry of Defence sets before us.

Naturally, this path is not strewn with roses; it involves constant interaction – occasionally contentious– with the Ministry of Defence. Yet, on the other hand, truth emerges from debate. I believe that in situations where we cannot reach agreement – and such situations do arise – the assistance of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief is invaluable. I say this not for rhetorical effect, but on the basis of practical experience: indeed, the President’s personal involvement in resolving a number of fundamental issues has proven decisive, and I have conveyed this to him quite frankly.

Mr President, I wish to reiterate my profound gratitude for your visit to the institute.

Vladimir Putin: Friends, colleagues, comrades, I address you in this way because the Army has retained this form of address – comrade. Specialists of your calibre differ little from the personnel in uniform who serve the Motherland.

Mr Solomonov noted that our path – and in this regard I do not distance myself from you, from professionals such as yourselves, or from teams such as yours – is not strewn with roses. Why? Roses have thorns, that is true, and one must know how to navigate past them, appreciate the blossoms, and press forward to achieve the common result that we require in the name of Russia.

Thank you. I wish you a happy anniversary and offer my congratulations!

Meeting with representatives of the indigenous people of Russia

2026-04-30T19:56:08+04:00

Vladimir Putin had a meeting with representatives of the indigenous people of Russia at the Znaniye.The First federal educational marathon.

The event took place on the Day of Indigenous Peoples of Russia, which was established by Presidential Executive Order on November 4, 2025, and is observed for the first time this year.

Before the meeting, the President visited Znaniye.Heroes, an exhibition devoted to the heroes of the special military operation. Director General of the Znaniye Society Maxim Dreval and special military operation veterans Rodion and Kristina Puiko accompanied the President.

Held in Moscow at Manezh exhibition hall on April 28–30, Znaniye.The First educational marathon is dedicated to the Year of Unity of the Peoples of Russia.

* * *

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Friends, good afternoon.

Today, we are marking the Day of Indigenous Peoples of Russia for the first time. I would like to offer my sincere congratulations to all of you and all the people of Russia on this occasion. Why do you think I am sending my greetings to all Russian citizens? In fact, no matter whether you belong to an ethnic majority or minority, all the peoples of Russia form a single family, and this is what makes us strong. Ethnic groups both large and small must all realise that this is our common home, our homeland. This is the only way we can feel confident and advance in a sustained and steady manner.

Our country is home to 47 indigenous peoples. Each of them is an integral part of Russia and its unique diversity and serves as a keeper of unique traditions, cultures, and ways of life. Each people, and each ethnic group that is part of Russia’s close-knit family of peoples represents our shared heritage. Preserving and supporting them, as well as ensuring their wellbeing, is essential to safeguarding and strengthening the unity of the nation as a whole.

Let me emphasise that Russia has historically emerged as a union of various peoples. We have been mentioning this often, but I think that repeating this message is absolutely appropriate on this day, so I wanted to emphasise this point.

I am looking at a married couple right now, since it embodies the very notion of a union, both literally and in a more figurative sense. The young wife comes from the Krasnodar Territory, while you are from the Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Area. People come together to form mixed families, which consolidates our unity.

At the heart of this union lies a respect for the values and unique identities of its various ethnic groups. From the time of our early explorers – Semyon Dezhnev and Yerofey Khabarov – the expansion of Russian settlers across the vast territories of Siberia, the Far East, and the North did not, I wish to emphasise, entail the suppression or destruction of the indigenous populations’ traditional ways of life. It is worth noting that we are well aware of the practices seen in certain other countries, where reservations were established and so on. Ultimately, these lands were incorporated into the Russian Empire not through conflict with indigenous groups, but through cooperation with them, and with respect for their customs and traditions.

I would also like to remind you that from the 19th century onwards – almost a century before similar developments occurred in, for example, North America – conditions were put in place to enable the education and enlightenment of representatives from various ethnic groups, including small-numbered ones. To its credit, the USSR continued this work throughout its modern history.

By the mid-1930s, following the establishment of the Institute of Northern Peoples, many indigenous languages had gained their own written forms. It was also in the 1930s that the first scholars, holders of doctoral-level degrees emerged from among these indigenous communities. Today, Russian regions are implementing educational programmes that cover 76 native languages of various groups, including indigenous ones. A comprehensive range of measures is also in place to support traditional livelihoods, such as reindeer herding, hunting, and many other activities.

I should add that during my visits to these areas, we spoke directly, without any media presence, with the people working there, including reindeer herders, and saw for ourselves how their daily lives are organised. It is a deeply fascinating way of life, and the people are very warm, kind-hearted, and dedicated to their work. They live in harsh conditions, without a doubt, and this inevitably leaves its mark on their character, their worldview, and the way they relate to one another.

Much is being done to ensure that those leading a nomadic lifestyle have access to a full range of modern medical, social, and educational services. To be honest, the people are not demanding – to their credit. They work hard, live in challenging conditions, and even a modest amount of attention from the state elicits a positive response.

On the whole, the efforts of the state aim to help small peoples to retain the traditions of their ancestors and to pass them on to new younger generations with due respect and care, and preferably in full volume. As you know, we are now implementing large-scale plans for the development of the Far East, Siberia and the Arctic. That said, the interests of the people, including those whose ancestors lived on these territories for centuries, are our absolute priority.

I should say that, when I discuss all projects with members of the Government and representatives of our major companies, I always draw attention to this, I say this with complete responsibility. If I am mistaken, then please, let me know, but, on the whole, I can see that the CEOs of our companies display complete understanding when we discuss the need to pay attention to the interests of the people who have been living on these territories for centuries, while implementing major and large-scale investment projects.

We will continue to implement all these infrastructure, industrial, social and environmental plans, projects and programmes in close dialogue with society and representatives of indigenous peoples.

I would like to emphasise once again that the universality and strength of Russia lie in its diversity. It seems that, as the popular saying goes, there is a snag here – extremely different cultures, customs and traditions exist together. But when all of them co-exist in a common space, understanding the value and importance of mutual collaboration, these individualities stop contradicting each other and become mutually complementary, creating a very powerful foundation for our common development. As I have already said, history, culture, customs and traditions are not absorbed but, on the contrary, supplement one another. We should continue to aspire for this.

People of the most diverse ethnicities, religious beliefs and lifestyles are united by their love and concern for their birthplace and for Russia. We have just spoken with young people who discussed the development of their birthplace with pleasure and pride. How long have you been away? For two years?

Roman Puiko: We have not been home for two years.

Vladimir Putin: You have not been home for two years, and you came back and saw changes for the better. But where did they fight, and for what cause? They fought for our common large Motherland. And this combination of love and a desire to support and to do everything possible for the development of our birthplace and our common large Motherland is very important. This is the main element of our worldview and of what unites us, including our readiness to stand up in defence of our birthplace and of our common, larger Motherland in a time of trial.

We know how courageously representatives of low-numbered indigenous peoples fought during the Great Patriotic War. They were rightfully honoured with titles of Hero of the Soviet Union and other high awards. One of the most prominent snipers who became known during the Great Patriotic War was a representative of an indigenous people of the North.

Today, men and women are honourably defending the interests of our common Motherland in the special military operation, fighting for our country, Russia, shoulder to shoulder with representatives of other ethnicities. I know that special military operation veterans are present here today. My sincere gratitude goes to you and your comrades for your service to the Motherland.

When challenges arise, the values of unity and mutual support always come to the fore, while courage, bravery and ability to overcome difficulties are set in the mentality of many indigenous peoples in Russia. Nature itself cultivates their endurance, polishing the character of those who live in harsh conditions for generations, century upon century.

I want to stress that this has always been the case. We have always achieved victories and success together, by uniting our efforts. The Year of Unity of the Peoples of Russia is intended to highlight and strengthen the universal constructive role of such solidarity.

There are people here today who do a great deal to preserve national cultures and customs. You are actively supporting and developing the ideas of unity, including at the platform of the Znanyie (Knowledge) Society, as part of the “Znaniye. The First” educational marathon. I haven’t got a single doubt that, thanks to such proactive and caring people like you, the centuries-long history of Russian peoples will have a laudable continuation. It already continues and will continue in the future. And Russia will have a laudable continuation as our united Fatherland. We will achieve more success together.

Once again, congratulations to you, representatives of all the low-numbered ethnicities, and to all Russian citizens. As I said in the beginning, congratulations. Thank you.

Please. This is an informal event. I know that many of you are working on specific areas. Frankly, I looked up some background materials before this meeting. I enjoyed this read like a good book. I was delighted and impressed to know what you are working on, and it is not an exaggeration. I will be even more pleased to listen to you.

If you have any questions, suggestions, or requests regarding how we can support you, let’s discuss them. Please, go ahead.

<…>

Visit to Anatoly Rakhlin Sports School

2026-04-28T15:53:29+04:00

The President visited the Anatoly Rakhlin Olympic Reserve Multifunctional Sports School, where he presented the Order of Honour to the staff of the St Petersburg Regional Judo Federation.

At the Anatoly Rakhlin Sports School, athletes are practising judo, fencing, rhythmic gymnastics, and rifle and pistol shooting. The President toured informational displays covering the history of the sports centre, visited training halls, and had a brief conversation with the students.

* * *

Speech at a ceremony to award the Order of Honour to the St Petersburg Judo Federation

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Friends, colleagues,

I am delighted to have the opportunity to present the Order of Honour to the staff of the St Petersburg Regional Judo Federation.

This truly high state decoration has been well deserved. Your public organisation is among the most active participants in major efforts to develop sport, promote the values of physical fitness and healthy lifestyle. The achievements of St Petersburg judokas speak volumes about the Federation’s success. For 90 years now, they have been among the strongest in our country and around the world.

I checked the background information and frankly I was not aware of this myself: since 1929, judo has been practised in Leningrad and later in St Petersburg.

Taking this opportunity, I would like to congratulate all former judokas of Leningrad and St Petersburg, whom I see here now, as well as active athletes and coaches who are brilliantly carrying on the best traditions of the legendary Leningrad judo school. We are not deterred by anything, and we continue as usual. My congratulations go to its outstanding coaches, including Anatoly Rakhlin, the founder of the centre where we are now.

St Petersburg representatives form the backbone of Russia’s youth, junior, and senior national judo teams. Their performances often secure top positions in team rankings. This was the case at the Grand Slam tournament in Abu Dhabi in November 2025, and at a recently held European Championship in Tbilisi, Georgia. I am confident our judokas will confirm their status as leaders in the upcoming 2028 Olympic qualification events.

At the same time, many people from Leningrad and St Petersburg who have practised judo achieve success not only in sport, but in public life, the military, and business as well. I believe it is no coincidence.

It is especially gratifying to know that the number of people practising judo continues to grow. In St Petersburg alone, there are 19 sports schools and more than 3,500 children who have chosen, as we all know well, the gentle way of Jigoro Kano. In the master’s own words, they chose to be not better than someone else, but to be better than yesterday.

I would like to thank the St Petersburg Judo Federation for its extensive and constructive work. I wish every employee, athlete, manager, and coach all the very best. I wish you excellent health, success and, of course, great victories, which we all count on and always look forward to.

Meeting with members of the Council of Legislators

2026-04-28T15:51:20+04:00

On the Day of Russian Parliamentarism, the President addressed the Council of Legislators of the Russian Federation Federal Assembly.

The event took place in the Tauride Palace in St Petersburg. Before it began, the President viewed an exhibition of historical documents dedicated to the 120^th anniversary of Russian parliamentarism. The exhibition included the manifestos on the establishment of the State Duma and the reform of the State Council, the text of Emperor Nicholas II’s speech delivered on April 27, 1906, and the minutes of the first State Duma meetings. The President was accompanied by Federation Council Speaker Valentina Matviyenko, with explanations provided by Head of the Federal Archive Agency Andrei Artizov.

* * *

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Colleagues, friends,

I would like to congratulate all our legislators on the Day of Russian Parliamentarism.

Today marks a landmark historical event: the 120^th anniversary of the Russian parliament. It was in this hall that the State Duma held its first meeting on April 27, 1906. At that time, the establishment of that body and elections to it became events of immense public and state significance. Many welcomed them as a new era in the development of the country and pinned their hopes for large-scale reforms in Russia on it.

Sergei Muromtsev, the first chairman of the State Duma, called on the members of parliament to perform a great mission and to accomplish heroic feats for the benefit of the people who elected them, and for the good of the Motherland. A year later, in 1907, Pyotr Stolypin said in his address to the State Duma that the Fatherland should become a state ruled by law. However, a decade later, the October Revolution of 1917 and the Civil War dramatically changed the fate of our country and of the millions of our compatriots.

There are different views on the inevitability of that dramatic shift and the role played in it by individual Duma deputies and politicians. Overall, I would like to emphasise that the experience of the first Russian parliamentarians deserves our respect, gratitude, and scientific, political and philosophical study and assessment.

Many of your predecessors sincerely believed in the power of their patriotic beliefs, faithfully served the Fatherland, actively and passionately championed the interests of the people, and worked for the wellbeing of the Motherland.

These include members of the State Council of the Russian Empire, which was reformed 120 years ago to become a partially elected body with legislative powers. The State Duma and the State Council were declared the highest bodies of government authority and were to work together.

In fact, this is how the first model of a bicameral parliamentary system emerged. Today, it operates effectively within the constitutional framework, playing an important role in a vast, multi-ethnic country with numerous religious denominations.

Russia’s regional parliaments across the country are making an immense contribution to developing Russia and making it stronger. Their speakers work together with senior officials from both chambers, as well as chairs of the Federal Assembly committees, within the Council of Legislators.

I would like to thank all of you and your colleagues for the meaningful and important contribution to achieving the national development goals and overcoming the challenges we face.

As I have already noted, our political system, all branches and levels of power, including parliamentary institutions, have a proven track record of resilience and sustainability, enjoy genuine sovereignty and are ready to stand up for our Fatherland’s vital interests. Our people responded to attempts to pressure and threaten Russia, as well as aggressive attacks against it, by demonstrating their unity and firmness, while the state responded by taking swift action, including at the legislative level. This is very important. I would like to thank State Duma deputies, the Federation Council members, and also parliamentarians in the regions for this proactive political stance and for the high standard of professionalism. The parliamentarians have created their own front in the resistance effort, fighting for Russia, its security and its future.

If anyone thinks that a multi-party democracy, with its diversity of positions and approaches, and competition, exposes our vulnerability and offers a path to driving us apart and spreading social discord, they are wrong. They simply ignore what Russia represents and fail not understand it or its people. For us, love for our Motherland and resolve to defend it come above all else. This is the essence and the historical principle of a sovereignty-centred outlook. It is where our strength lies. Without it, Russia cannot exist.

There is a sense of solidarity on key and defining matters among all parliamentary parties. They share the same vision. The parliament has been working closely with the Government, the leading state corporations and smaller companies, business associations and patriotic forces in a coordinated manner. Having a common cause and addressing the most challenging tasks is what consolidates society and the nation as a whole.

This approach has manifested itself, above all, in efforts to support the special military operation and strengthen Russia's defence capability and security. Combatants, combat veterans and their families can now benefit from a wider range of social guarantees. In the past year alone, new laws were enacted on free education, loan repayment breaks, and the abolition of several duties and taxes, while also making social programmes more accessible, including support for starting a business after retiring from the military.

It goes without saying that this must be a continuous and unrelenting effort. Of course, we know well that there are still quite a few challenges and shortcomings. There are many of them, and you know this. We must always focus on helping people and offer them additional support.

Let me be clear: you are not only the legislative authority but also the representative body of the people. When you pass laws, you have a duty to oversee their implementation. To do this effectively, you must stay in constant touch with the public, listen to and respect their views, and take real-life situations into account, even those that may seem mundane, so that laws are closely aligned with everyday reality. You must also take responsibility and make decisions more swiftly in the interests of the people.

I believe you will agree that this should be the guiding principle of your work across all strategically important areas: demographic, social, and migration policy, healthcare, education, the environment, culture, and all priority issues reflected in national projects and long-term plans. Legislative support for these efforts must be continuous.

A separate task is to support the country’s regions, ensuring their fiscal sustainability and access to sufficient resources for growth.

As you know, a decision was previously made to write off two-thirds of the constituent entities’ debt on budget loans. This write-off is conditional on the freed-up funds being used for investment and other significant purposes. We are talking about a total of over one trillion rubles for the period up to 2030. Let me repeat: two-thirds of the budget loan debt is being written off. The regions are repaying the remaining debt diligently and on time. This year, that comes to approximately 100 billion rubles. But for many regions, even this current burden remains quite high – and we are aware of that.

The United Russia party has put forward an initiative to defer the repayment of regions’ federal budget loans from 2026 to a later date. Let us do just that. I ask the Government, deputies and senators to implement this decision without delay.

I also ask you to support the Government’s efforts and submit your proposals for incentivising economic growth, with a view to achieving sustainable, higher rates of growth. A solid legal foundation is needed for sectors aimed at advanced technological leadership and for the comprehensive development of Russia’s territories. Systemic legislative decisions in this area are already being taken – for example, on the implementation of platform economy elements, the circulation of the digital ruble, and support for creative industries.

On the agenda are the first outlines of a regulatory framework for artificial intelligence. Drawing on international experience, we must find our own optimal and balanced model for regulating these technologies, which are transforming the entire world.

Overall, the legislative process must be systemic and – I would add – creative. It should not be aimed solely at adapting to current challenges and risks (which are undoubtedly unprecedented at times and require appropriate responses), nor should it focus exclusively on bans, restrictions, or punitive measures, such as introducing new penalties for offenders. While protecting consumer interests in every sense of the word is necessary, focusing solely on this is counterproductive. Excessive barriers hinder development. These are all temporary, passing phenomena, while Russia is eternal. Our legislation must be flexible, dynamic, progressive, and forward-looking.

We all – legislative and executive bodies – must always think about tomorrow, see beyond the horizon and develop legislative norms that support constructive development, drive this development, and promote conditions for creativity, helping talented people to realise their potential and contribute to the country, and moving society, the state, science and the economy forward and only forward. I am confident that Russian lawmakers will do exactly that.

Colleagues,

The election to the ninth convocation of the State Duma is scheduled for this year. I will point out two key things in this regard – at least two.

First, the election campaign and sometimes intense competition among candidates and parties must not affect your consistent professional legislative work – both at the centre, in the regions, and locally. The Parliament is a government body, and the public expects that the government will serve honestly and produce results.

Second, the election campaign must be conducted in strict accordance with the law, to ensure that its results are transparent, trustworthy and, unquestionably legitimate, reflecting the will of the people. This is always extremely important but – as I have said many times and will reiterate – in the current circumstances, this is particularly vital, as it provides a stable foundation for governance and for taking the necessary and timely decisions in the interests of our people.

For my part, I want to wish good luck to all future candidates at the federal and other levels, especially since some of them are certainly here today. I wish you success.

On the same note, I want to quote Alexander Solzhenitsyn and his remarks made at the State Duma in 1994. He said: power is not a catch for competing parties; it is not a reward, and it is not fuel for one’s ego. Power is a heavy burden, a responsibility, an obligation and hard work. I think this quote is timely and very appropriate.

Once again, thank you for the work and for your support. Congratulations on the Parliamentarism Day. And of course, congratulations on the upcoming holiday, the Day of the Soviet People’s Victory in the Great Patriotic War.

Thank you very much.

Ceremony to present state decorations

2026-04-23T12:10:09+04:00

The ceremony to present state decorations to the winners of world boxing championships and representatives of the Russian Boxing Federation took place in the Kremlin’s St Catherine Hall.

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Friends,

I am delighted to see you. Russia’s best boxers, winners of international tournaments are gathered here today.

Both our male and female teams dominated the world championships in 2025 in the team rating. Our professionals have also excelled in their competitions.

It gives me sincere joy and pleasure to congratulate all of you on this success. Your performances and results are a significant contribution to Russia's efforts to assert its leadership in world sport, a position it holds firmly despite unscrupulous attempts to undermine it.

The disgraceful and, frankly, cowardly, politically motivated behaviour of the former leadership of the International Olympic Committee has caused enormous damage to the Olympic movement and to the very principles of Olympism. The selective sanctions against Russian athletes, imposed under the pretext of condemning Russia's actions to protect our people and our interests in the conflict in Ukraine, while ignoring numerous similar and equally tragic armed conflicts around the globe, have only exposed the corruption and political bias of a significant part of international sports officials.

I hope that the new leadership of the IOC and international sports organisations turn their backs on this legacy as quickly as possible. Their predecessor left them a burdensome and, as I have already said, disgraceful legacy. I am confident that many more sporting triumphs lie ahead for you and your fellow athletes across various sports disciplines, including at major international competitions, and that these victories will take place under our national flag, and to the accompaniment of the Russian national anthem.

Russia is gradually returning to the global sporting arena and doing so with dignity. Our swimmers, fencers, canoeists, gymnasts, judokas and wrestlers all delivered outstanding performances in the past sporting season.

But, of course, the truly exceptional achievement – without exaggeration – was the Russian Paralympic Team’s triumph in Milan. As you know, they secured third place in the overall team standings with a squad that was several times smaller – indeed, several times smaller – than those of their main competitors. This is an outstanding result. These victories were achieved not by numbers, but by skill, talent and determination.

Our junior athletes are also a source of pride, across a wide range of sports.

The state will, of course, continue to develop the sports sector in all its dimensions, ensuring broad opportunities for participation in elite, professional and grassroots sport, and actively promoting sport, above all among children and young people. As we all know, sport is not just about physical strength and agility; it is a way of life built on the values of health, mutual respect, which is very important, determination and responsibility.

Friends, once again, I warmly congratulate you all on your achievements and on receiving state decorations. I wish you success and many more victories – to you, your teammates, your coaches and your mentors.

All the best to you, and congratulations.

(Ceremony for presenting state decorations.)

<…>

Vladimir Putin: Friends,

Once again, I congratulate you on your state decorations – well-deserved state decorations. One of the recipients just said that you fought and brought home medals in the name of, and for, the Motherland, for Russia. For its part, the Motherland, Russia, will do everything to support you.

Yes, this may seem like a traditionally male sport, but I am pleased to note that our ladies are also performing at the very highest level. And life goes on, and what is especially pleasing: just before we entered this hall, I was quietly told that one of you is expecting a child, which is particularly wonderful news. I hope you will be a happy mother and will also contribute to another vitally important priority for the country: demographic development.

I wish you happiness, wellbeing and good health. Once again, congratulations on your achievements.

Thank you very much!

Meeting with municipal officials

2026-04-21T21:30:20+04:00

Vladimir Putin held a meeting with municipal officials.

The meeting took place on Local Self-Government Day, which is observed annually on April 21.

The discussion addressed issues important to residents of municipalities of all sizes – from small villages and towns to regional capitals. Particular attention was given to major programmes such as Integrated Territorial Development, Creating a Comfortable Urban Environment, and Integrated Rural Development. Participants also highlighted what one speaker described as “small matters of great significance for the people,” including free or subsidised connection of households to gas pipelines, maintenance of water supply systems in small communities, and the preservation of cultural heritage sites in small historic towns.

The discussion also addressed the role of municipal workers in efforts to integrate the historical territories of Donbass and Novorossiya into Russia’s economic, cultural, and professional landscape. The President emphasised that all levels of government – federal, regional, and municipal – must work tirelessly towards reaching the set objective – to bring these new regions up to the national standards by 2030.

* * *

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Good afternoon, colleagues.

We meet regularly in various formats – I mean representatives of the municipal community. In this broader format, perhaps not as often as we would like to, but still on a consistent basis: this is already the third year in a row that we have held this annual event. I hope it is meaningful for you as well, for it certainly is significant for me, because you engage directly with the people. This is an additional channel of communication with the country’s citizens, which is extremely important.

I hope you will share your assessments of the government’s actions and their effectiveness – what measures taken by the federal government are working and are truly needed, and what aspects of our joint efforts require further improvement. We will also listen to your ideas and advice as to how best to convey these positions to the deputies of the State Duma.

I know that Ms Valentina Matviyenko, Irina Guseva, co-chair of the All-Russian Association for the Development of Local Self-Government, as well as colleagues from the Government and the Presidential Executive Office, have already spoken here.

Nevertheless, even after these meetings, you may still have additional points you would like to share with me. I am at your disposal.

<…>

Service nationwide municipal award ceremony

2026-04-21T21:27:12+04:00

On Local Self-Government Day, Vladimir Putin addressed the 3rd All-Russian Municipal Forum Small Homeland – the Strength of Russia and took part in a ceremony to present the Service municipal award to the winner of the ”Courage and Heroism in Service to the Motherland“ category.

The award was presented to Yevgeny Filonov, principal of the Serpeisk Secondary Comprehensive School, a deputy of the Meshchovsk Municipal District in the Kaluga Region and a veteran of the special military operation.

Established in 2023 on the President's instructions, the Service municipal award recognises outstanding achievements by municipal officials in improving the quality of life of their constituents.

* * *

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Colleagues,

The All-Russian Municipal Forum, Small Homeland – the Strength of Russia, is an important event for our country. It brings together heads of districts and regions, representatives of public organisations, rural and urban settlements, municipal employees, and members of municipal councils.

I also extend a warm welcome to representatives of the international municipal community attending the forum. It is encouraging to see your cooperation continue to grow and strengthen. I sincerely wish all participants productive discussions, success, and fruitful future cooperation.

Friends,

Today we celebrate Local Self-Government Day. There are many professional holidays and festive events – today included – but Local Self-Government Day holds special significance for our country. It matters not only to those working in this field, but also to everyone gathered here, and to all citizens. After all, it ensures direct engagement with people and helps address the most urgent, sometimes immediate, yet critically important issues.

A special word of appreciation goes to municipal teams working in our historical territories – the Donetsk and Lugansk people’s republics, the Zaporozhye and Kherson regions, as well as border and other areas exposed to terrorist attacks. The courage of those who, despite risks to their health and lives, continue to work selflessly is an example for the entire country. Among the finalists are individuals who have endured these difficult challenges. Thank you.

Colleagues, your work in every constituent entity of Russia takes a great deal of strength, time and energy. People bring their concerns and needs to you. The atmosphere in all cities and villages, and the mood and sentiments of the people depend on your efforts to deal with problems promptly and on your attentive and thorough approach to their requests.

It is important to remember that we all work to strengthen the country's sovereignty and security, and to ensure its sustainable and independent development. Government officials at all levels are essentially a single team, and municipal officials form this team's foundation. For citizens, you represent the face of the entire public administration system. It is at the local level that people’s confidence in the future is shaped, and thus the foundation is laid for our continued progress and for Russia's development.

Colleagues,

Your forum, which is being held for the third time, has become a respected platform for discussing current issues. One of its highlights is the celebration of the best members of municipal authorities, the winners and laureates of the municipal award Service.

The veterans of the special military operation have moved from the battlefield to the forefront of municipal service. Their readiness to take responsible decisions can enhance the effectiveness of municipal authorities. They are working successfully in various positions, doing a great deal to support their comrades-in-arms who are on the frontline and those who have returned home wounded, as well as their families and the relatives of our heroes who have given their lives for our Motherland.

The experience of veterans of the special military operation is extremely important for socially significant projects and initiatives. You are aware of the Time of Heroes federal programme and similar regional personnel projects. I hope that thanks to these programmes local self-governments will have more new leaders, real leaders who understand and are aware of people’s needs and are doing everything in their power to resolve these problems.

I would like to remind you that we will hold State Duma elections next autumn. The residents of our four historical reincorporated regions will participate in them for the first time.

We understand that these elections will be held in complicated conditions, and that our opponents, or more precisely, our adversaries, above all external ones, will try to use every possible method to split and destabilise Russian society. I am confident that all these attempts will be foiled, and that our voters will opt for constructive political programmes and ideas, for patriots and people of action.

This year, 2026, has been declared the Year of Unity of the Peoples of Russia. Together, we must preserve and strengthen this unique heritage. Given the vital role of local communities in this process, the award has been expanded to include a new category: Unity of the Peoples of Russia – Strength of the Country.

There are many examples in our history of how unity has secured the Fatherland’s great victories and achievements. Today, we clearly understand that the most important thing is to stand together. Only through unity can we achieve our goals in the special military operation, and through solidarity and personal responsibility – each doing their part – we will achieve the country’s strategic priorities and ensure its long-term development.

I would also like to touch upon another issue that I know concerns municipalities. It may be a technical matter, but it is nonetheless very important. A law on regulatory and supervisory activities in relation to municipalities has recently been signed. I want to emphasise this: while we must always act in the interests of the people – those interests must unquestionably be protected – regulatory and supervisory bodies should not act in a purely formal manner or, as they say, go too far. The objective is not to generate statistics on penalties, but to resolve the real problems people face.

In this regard, I would like to draw the attention of regulatory and supervisory authorities, as well as the judicial community and bailiffs, to the importance of taking into account the full range of circumstances in which we live and work. This includes situations where there are objective obstacles to the exercise of certain powers, including financial constraints.

We all understand very well – especially you who are working on the ground – that in practice we sometimes have to rely on resources not enshrined in existing regulations, to operate under financial limitations, and to address inconsistencies in legislation. Life is complex and constantly evolving; as lawyers say, by the time a law is adopted, it is already outdated. Reality always runs ahead of formal rules.

(Applause.)

You are required to make prompt decisions that directly affect people’s lives. While it is important to comply with regulations, nothing is more important than people’s lives and health. Supervisory, oversight, and judicial authorities must take these realities into account.

Let me remind you that the Constitutional Court of Russia has supported precisely this approach. I therefore ask supervisory, law enforcement, and judicial bodies to be guided by it in their enforcement and judicial practice.

(Applause.)

Colleagues,

Local governance means people, their activism and desire to go the extra mile to improve our citizens’ lives. We must support these initiatives as much as we can. Today I am delighted to launch the new season of the national poll on projects for a comfortable urban environment.

This contest has become a true catalyst for positive changes. Last year, more than 1,600 municipal entities participated, and over 16.5 million people voted online. As you know, we allocate 25 billion rubles for the best projects from the federal budget every year.

This mechanism allows residents to influence their cities’ appearance directly, and therefore, their voices must be heard. Public polls also determine the winners of the Service award. The number of poll participants constantly grows, exceeding 1.5 million people this year. Your hard work resonates with people. Once again, we deeply appreciate it.

We can proceed with the ceremony now.

(The awards ceremony begins.)

Service award winner Yevgeny Filonov: Mr President, friends.

It is a great honour for me to be on this stage, not only as a deputy of the Meshchovsky District of the Kaluga Region but also as a person who took up arms to defend my home region – and it is what we are talking about today.

This forum is about people, about the home front that our troops are defending, and about our future.

I want to thank my fellow countrymen, Kaluga residents, my brothers-in-arms, and my students, who, I know, are watching TV now, for their support in this contest.

Mr President, thank you for supporting local initiatives and projects and inspiring us with your example to serve the Motherland. Thank you very much.

I serve the Kaluga Region and Russia. Victory will be ours!

Vladimir Putin: Once again, my heartfelt congratulations to the winners.

Soon, we will be celebrating another anniversary of the Soviet people’s Victory in the Great Patriotic War. Just now, our biggest laureate, who stood on this stage next to his comrades, spoke about the home front.

You know, it occurred to me that during the Great Patriotic War, the entire home front laboured for the front, for our soldiers and defenders. They manufactured tanks, aircraft, artillery guns and munitions, but their efforts did not stop there. During the harshest months of the Great Patriotic War, the cold winter of 1941–1942, much like today, Soviet children, grandmothers and other women knitted socks and sent small packages and gifts to the front. Why didn’t they do it in Germany? German soldiers froze to death as they reached Moscow. And no socks were coming from Germany.

This unity determines our success and victories. This unity sustains us today. Congratulations, thank you and good luck.

I will meet with some of our colleagues shortly.

Congratulations and my best wishes.

Meeting with members of the Central Election Commission

2026-04-02T11:54:44+04:00

Vladimir Putin met with members of the Central Election Commission

The President also spoke with Chairperson of the Central Election Commission Ella Pamfilova.

* * *

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Colleagues, first of all, congratulations on the start of your work in your new composition.

I hope that both the experienced members of the Central Election Commission and those newly appointed to such responsible roles will work closely as a well-coordinated team, setting a high bar for the almost one million colleagues working hard in election commissions across our vast country.

Competitive and democratic elections are the mandatory and irreplaceable constitutional instrument, essential for forming strong and capable governance. They are always important, and as I often say these days, they are two or three times more important for us under current conditions. Elections build our people’s confidence in the state and form the basis of direct public engagement in state governance and in the formation of governance bodies. Consequently, they foster public trust in the administration, political stability, and the continuity of our sovereign development.

At the same time, there are many aspects that depend specifically on you, so that every citizen understands the significance and the impact of their vote, and so that they can be certain of the legitimacy of the overall result.

This year poses some extremely serious challenges for you. In addition to many regional and local campaigns, there will be elections to the ninth convocation of the State Duma. Only the people of Russia, and no one else, can decide who the newly elected deputies will be. But, of course, and I want to repeat this, the public’s confidence in these institutions will also depend on the quality of your work. I must stress: no one, no external forces, will be given a single chance to interfere with or influence the course of the public vote, and especially its outcome. We will intercept any attempts to use the elections to destabilise our society.

I have set respective tasks for the Russian law enforcement agencies. I hope that election commission workers will ensure strict adherence to Russian legislation, and demonstrate objectivity, integrity and professionalism.

I ask you to focus specifically on security and maintain continuous contact with the Interior Ministry, the National Guard and other agencies.

In Donbass, Novorossiya and our border regions, we must take advantage of the unique election experience gained over the course of the special military operation.

I would like to once again express my gratitude to your colleagues who are working under extremely challenging conditions, in close proximity to combat zones. Despite ongoing shelling, provocations and personal threats they regularly face – which, regrettably, have become routine – they continue to carry out their duty to the people of Russia with courage.

The citizens who came out to vote also showed resilience and a strong Russian character. As I have mentioned earlier, people were literally queuing at polling stations, even with shells and drones operating nearby.

There is another important point worth highlighting. An increasing number of combat veterans, who are true participants and heroes of the special military operation, are seeking to continue serving Russia and to prove themselves in civilian life, including by pursuing roles in elected positions. I ask that you support your colleagues locally in assisting these candidates by ensuring that all necessary documentation is processed promptly and accurately, along with the completion of other pre-election procedures.

Furthermore, the Central Election Commission now includes a member with combat experience. I am confident he will offer valuable guidance on how best to support fellow servicemen who plan to run in elections to the Duma and at other levels. Isn’t that right, Mr Sysoyev?

Member of the Central Election Commission Anatoly Sysoyev: Absolutely.

Vladimir Putin: Mr Sysoyev has been appointed to the Central Election Commission under the presidential quota.

I am aware that all parliamentary parties are giving significant attention to these matters. While they naturally compete with one another – a normal and healthy dynamic – they are also united by a shared objective of the utmost national importance: boosting human resources potential by involving capable and battle-experienced individuals who have demonstrated genuine loyalty to the Motherland in government institutions, public organisations and mentorship systems.

Colleagues, our modern electoral system has been in development for over 30 years. It has undergone a complex process of establishment, steady advancement and substantial modernisation, with due account of national interests, voters’ expectations, and the latest technologies and technological capabilities.

Our priorities and principles are evident. They are aimed at ensuring equal conditions for candidates, fair competition, and unquestionable election outcomes, and focus on safeguarding the process from manipulation and unlawful interference, including cyber threats, while expanding accessibility and making voting as convenient as possible for citizens. I would like to thank you, as well as the previous members of the Central Election Commission, for your extensive and thorough efforts in this regard.

As an independent and professional authority, the Central Election Commission must continue to guarantee the reliability and effectiveness of our electoral system. It should consistently look ahead and focus on its development and future improvements, while maintaining its status as an advanced, transparent, open, and robust system, rightly regarded as one of the best in the world. This recognition is well deserved and must be preserved.

I wish you every success. Thank you very much.

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Plenary session of RSPP Congress

2026-03-27T15:27:55+04:00

Vladimir Putin took part in the 35^th Congress of the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs.

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Colleagues, Mr Shokhin, friends,

I welcome all participants and guests of the 35^th Congress of the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs. This event traditionally brings together owners and senior executives of major domestic companies and, naturally, attracts the attention of the entire Russian business community.

Many of those present in this hall meet with me regularly to discuss the most pressing issues facing your companies. Some of you work directly and regularly with the Government of the Russian Federation and officials of the Presidential Executive Office. Therefore, as they say, we are all well-versed in the subject, and I will not be announcing anything revolutionary today. Nevertheless, Mr Shokhin considers it appropriate to hold such meetings – they do not often take place on such a large scale – and there is likely some merit in doing so to reinforce certain key points. Indeed, the format of the Congress allows for discussions on current issues that play a crucial role in conducting business, improving the investment climate, formulating ideas, and outlining directions for further cooperation between the state and the business community.

The format of the Congress provides an opportunity to address pressing issues vital for business operations and the investment climate, as well as to generate ideas and set directions for future collaboration between the state and the business community.

We have built a constructive, results-driven dialogue with the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs and other business associations, on the one hand, and with government bodies and civil society institutions, on the other hand. This dialogue has proven its value over time. As Mr Shokhin noted, our collaboration has been particularly active during significant periods, including the challenging years at the end of the last century and the efforts to relaunch the domestic economy at the start of the new one.

Mutual trust and close cooperation between the state and the business community are especially crucial today, as uncertainty – and even stress – has risen sharply across the globe and in international markets.

We are all well aware of the events of 2014, when Russia – indeed, we – were forced, as I have repeatedly stated, to take all necessary measures to protect our people in Crimea and later in southeastern Ukraine more broadly. Following that, illegal sanctions were imposed. I want to stress that these sanctions are unlawful, as they were never endorsed by United Nations resolutions. Today, the armed conflict in the Middle East is adding further strain to the situation, inflicting significant damage on international logistics, production, and supply chains. Entire sectors, including the extraction and processing of hydrocarbons, metals, fertilisers, and numerous other goods and commodities, have been severely affected.

The full impact of the conflict in the Middle East remains difficult to predict. I suspect even those directly involved in the conflict cannot foresee its course, and for us, the uncertainty is even greater. Nevertheless, we must operate within the reality shaped by these events. Some assessments have already begun to compare their effects to the coronavirus pandemic, which, let me remind you, dramatically slowed development across every region and continent without exception.

It is no coincidence that comparisons are being made with the recent pandemic. As evidenced by the events the global community has faced in recent years, turmoil in trade, investment, and international relations more broadly is occurring more and more often, becoming a new reality that goes hand in hand with the transition of the entire global economy to a new state.

To meet the challenges of our time, Russia must be strong – we discuss this privately on a regular basis. It also needs to be united in its understanding of national interests, in addressing the tasks before us, and in achieving our strategic development goals.

Despite the objective challenges and artificial restrictions imposed on our country, we have succeeded in maintaining macroeconomic stability, with inflation and unemployment remaining at sustainable and predictable levels. Together with the business community, we continue to work toward fostering economic growth and addressing social issues.

I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to the members of the Union, as well as to the teams of your companies and enterprises, for your daily and significant contributions to strengthening Russia’s potential and supporting regional development. Above all, thank you for standing by our soldiers, our heroes – the participants in the special military operation – and their families. I know that many of you are actively involved in these efforts and closely monitor these issues. Your work has been invaluable in supporting the economic revival of Donbass and Novorossiya.

Let me stress once again: it is this form of partnership that is crucial for addressing today’s extraordinary challenges and for charting a path toward sustainable and lasting growth for our domestic economy amid global transformations, which bring not only risks but also opportunities, particularly for exporters.

Today, as the prices of our traditional exports rise amid turbulent markets, one might be tempted to take advantage of the situation and to pursue opportunistic profits, channel them into dividends, or, in the case of the state, inflate budget expenditures and government spending.

I spoke about this publicly before, but I want to reiterate it here: we must remain reasonable and prudent. Markets that have swung in one direction today can move the opposite way tomorrow. You are perfectly aware – as this audience are highly knowledgeable and experienced – that a measured, conservative approach is essential, both in business and in public finance. We will continue to uphold this principle in our budgetary policies, honouring our commitments to the citizens of the country.

At the same time, it is important to maintain the country’s trajectory of progressive development, enhance the competitiveness of our domestic economy, and strengthen the standing of Russian enterprises and companies on both international and domestic markets.

To achieve this, we must reinforce our national sovereignty. I believe there is no doubt today about what sovereignty means nowadays, what it is worth, and what consequences await the countries that at one point voluntarily gave it up, hoping it would bring peace, lower costs, and better conditions for economic and social development. The reality is different: without sovereignty, it is impossible to safeguard fundamental national interests. This principle applies across all sectors, including the development of transport, logistics, and financial infrastructure. As you know, national projects with respective objectives have already been launched.

Separately, it is those who invest in technological innovations and constantly work to improve their efficiency at a qualitatively new level that succeed in the modern world, on the global markets. Mr Shokhin mentioned these areas earlier, and I will also say a few words on the matter.

We will continue to provide incentives for business investments in the modernisation of enterprises and production capacities based on our own technological base. We will particularly support the implementation of solutions in three key cross-cutting technologies: artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, and digital platforms.

There is scope for cooperation with foreign states in this work, including those from rapidly growing regions of the world, such as the Asia-Pacific region and Southern Eurasia. We plan to develop such cooperation, as has also been mentioned today, primarily through BRICS.

Only recently, in February, the National Committee for Business Cooperation within BRICS was established. I understand its first meeting was scheduled for today, was it not, Mr Shokhin? I urge Russian businesspeople, members of the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs, to actively engage in the Committee’s work, jointly prepare proposals for the development of economic ties within BRICS and the launch of new, modern projects with partners in science, innovation, industry, agriculture, infrastructure, and logistics.

Naturally, to finance capital investments, it is essential to enhance the availability of credit and other instruments, as we all are well aware, including venture capital mechanisms and the opportunities offered by the stock market. The Government, together with the Central Bank, is making consistent progress in this direction. Proposals from the business community are obviously indispensable here.

To increase investment and expand the space for business initiative, we will continue to reduce costs for enterprises and organisations and remove administrative barriers – something we constantly discuss – including through the use of electronic services.

For instance, over the past five years, the process of obtaining more than four hundred licences and permits has been optimised and digitised. These procedures have become more straightforward and convenient, with their average processing times more than halved. This is a good indicator, after all.

The same reduction of red tape and paperwork must be carried out in the budgetary sphere. In healthcare and education, it is necessary to streamline reporting and other documentation so that doctors, teachers, and educators can devote more time to patients, schoolchildren and students. We often discuss this as well. Progress is being made, albeit gradually. However, it must be acknowledged that this is most noticeable in Moscow.

The supervision and control system is undergoing transformation through the adoption of advanced technological solutions. Since 2019, basically a fundamentally new regulatory framework has been introduced, with uniform rules and principles aimed at increasing transparency and overall effectiveness in this sphere.

All stages of inspections have been digitised and integrated into a unified information system. The number of inspections has decreased, but their effectiveness has improved. Meanwhile, the very purpose of inspections is changing: while previously regulatory bodies focused on identifying violations, now the emphasis is on their prevention, including through the use of artificial intelligence. Colleagues, please note that this reflects the essence of a risk-based approach as an element of a modern, globally competitive economy.

I have repeatedly spoken about Russia’s progress in international business rankings. These results do not only reflect expert evaluations but also the assessments of entrepreneurs themselves regarding the ease of doing business and operating in Russia, in our markets.

Nevertheless, the business environment requires constant improvement. We are carrying out this work systematically, with the active involvement of the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs and other business associations. For example, the Government has approved the National Model of Targeted Business Conditions until 2030. It outlines priority areas for action, including specific efforts on the legislative, political level that need to be taken to simplify business operations and improve the investment climate.

The initial results of the National Model will be reviewed shortly, ahead of the upcoming St Petersburg International Economic Forum. The agenda will also include discussion of a unified system for supporting investment projects, providing comprehensive and professional assistance to both domestic and foreign investors throughout the entire project lifecycle, with our leading development corporation, VEB.RF, playing an active role in it.

I would also like to note that business owners and shareholders are focusing on environmental well-being of their cities and regions, the quality of life of their employees, and the development of local communities.

I know that many of you are already consistently engaged in this effort, and I would like to express my gratitude for this. This is an essential component of our joint work and of the broader development of the country.

The RSPP regularly reviews the results of the Leaders of Russian Business contest. I know that the number of winners is growing, which means that a desire to improve life not only at enterprises but also around them is gaining momentum in business practice.

I would like to congratulate the winners and to say that the number of initiatives that really benefit people must increase. In this connection, I would like to mention a project to preserve our cultural heritage – estates, historical buildings and houses. By 2030, we plan to renovate and bring at least a thousand of such facilities into economic operation. We must give a new lease on life to unique monuments of architecture and art, saving them for future generations. I would like you to take note of this and to join these efforts. The expenses will be negligible, while the outcome will be important for the culture of our country and its future.

This year, a low-interest loan programme has been launched in all regions to finance such projects. I invite both small and medium-sized businesses, as well as big business, to take advantage of this opportunity, especially in the regions where these enterprises operate.

At the same time, I would like to ask the Government, VEB and our colleagues in the regions to harmoniously integrate support for projects to renovate cultural heritage facilities into the regional investment standard system. As you know, such standards have been introduced in all entities of the Russian Federation.

Friends,

Russia has a rich history. The unity of our society and working hard together to make our country stronger, more stable and powerful in terms of economic potential have always been an earnest of our progressive development throughout the ages.

We must not only launch large and ambitious economic projects that are important for industry as a whole, but also small but significant initiatives. The owners of enterprises and companies and their personnel must be aware of the long-term outcomes of their work. They must be open to technological innovations, encourage their implementation, and compete both in the domestic market and abroad.

We will work together and do our utmost to fulfil these tasks, to ensure the successful development of the national economy and hence our country as a whole.

I would like to thank you for your work and to convey our best wishes and gratitude to your personnel.

Thank you.

Ceremony for presenting Presidential prizes to young culture professionals and for works for children

2026-03-26T12:10:49+04:00

A ceremony to present the 2025 Presidential Prize for Young Culture Professionals and the 2025 Presidential Prize for Works and Projects for Children and Young People was held in the Kremlin’s St Catherine Hall.

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Good afternoon, friends,

I am delighted to welcome you here, in the Kremlin: you are the winners of the prizes for young culture professionals and for works and projects for children and young people.

The presentation of these prizes traditionally coincides with Culture Worker’s Day. I congratulate everyone working in this sphere, which is of utmost importance for our society, for our citizens, and for our state, and I wish you success, inspiration, and new significant achievements. These will undoubtedly come. Proof of this is your dedication to your craft and your constant pursuit of excellence, as well as the heights you have reached in art and education.

For the group of young vocalists – Alina Chertash, Polina Shabunina, and Igor Morozov – such a height has been achieved through their performance of leading roles in Sergei Prokofiev’s opera Semyon Kotko.

Friends, you have brilliantly mastered the intricate musical language of this piece and have contributed significantly to the success of the production itself. There is no doubt that a great creative future awaits you.

Among the awardees is the theatre director of the Krasnoyarsk Young Spectator’s Theatre chief Abulkatinov. He skilfully and subtly combines the traditions of Russian theatrical art with contemporary artistic possibilities, conducts extensive educational work, and helps aspiring colleagues find their creative path.

Another recipient of the prize for young culture professionals is Vladislav Miller. His performances are imbued with candour and intensity. Each new role played by this actor becomes a genuine event in the country’s theatrical life.

An example of the continuity of traditions and mastery is the Popov Grand Children’s Choir. For more than half a century, the choir has played an important role in nurturing young talents, the future stars of Russian culture.

This is largely due to the efforts of Merited Artist of Russia Anatoly Kislyakov. Under his leadership, this renowned ensemble has preserved its traditions and continues to thrive. Anatoly Kislyakov’s work has been honoured with the prize for works and projects for young people.

The prize in this category has also been awarded to Children’s Radio. Among Russian media, it holds a special place. The radio channel does not merely entertain – though that in itself is already good, even excellent – it also educates its young audience, fostering in them an interest in history, books, and creativity. Above all, it is simply loved and eagerly listened to by our youngest and most important citizens – boys and girls.

The prize for contribution to the upbringing of school students has also been awarded to the Museum of the History of Military Uniforms. It is one of the most beloved museum venues for children and adults alike, offering everything for children and parents: from a museum for toddlers to a children’s summer camp, a young historian’s club, interactive classrooms, and a chess school.

Friends,

All your creative work is built on genuine talent, immense diligence, and civic responsibility. It affirms the best qualities of our great national culture: compassion, pursuit of justice, boundless love for the homeland, and the aspiration for our children to be better than we are.

Your success, friends, is undoubtedly a contribution to Russia’s future. I congratulate you and wish you new accomplishments and all the very best.

Thank you for your attention.

<…>

Vladimir Putin: Friends,

Once again, I congratulate you on receiving your awards today.

One of the participants in the ceremony said that work in itself is a source of inspiration. I would like to respond by saying that your work and the results you achieve are undoubtedly a source of inspiration for the entire country, as is the work of your colleagues. Art strengthens and advances the country, creating the conditions for its security and economic development. Culture lies at the heart of our shared national identity, and it is this that forms the foundation for Russia’s future.

Thank you very much. Congratulations.

Presentation of state decorations to the winners and medalists of the 14th Paralympic Winter Games

2026-03-20T10:44:55+04:00

Vladimir Putin presented state decorations of the Russian Federation to the winners and medalists of the 2026 Paralympic Winter Games, at the Kremlin.

The Games took place in Italy from March 6 to 15, 2026. The Russian team, comprising six athletes and one sighted guide, competed in three disciplines – cross-country skiing, alpine skiing, and snowboarding – and won a total of 12 medals: eight gold, one silver, and three bronze, securing third place in the overall team standings.

* * *

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Good afternoon, friends,

I am truly delighted to congratulate you – our national Russian team – on an extraordinary performance at the 14th Winter Paralympics.

You did more than just achieve exceptional results. Many would agree that your participation in the Games marked one of the most remarkable chapters in the history of Paralympic sport. Competing against some of the world’s best athletes, you won 12 medals and secured a top-three finish – all with a team of just six athletes and one guide. By comparison, the teams that placed first and second were more than ten times the size of ours.

You have shown both Russia and the world what it truly means to fulfil the lofty mission of a Paralympic athlete. That mission – and its well-known slogan – is “to inspire and excite the world.” And that is exactly what you did. Millions were captivated by your performances, inspired by your determination, resilience, and will to win.

You also brought the most powerful, heartfelt emotions to Russian fans, giving them genuine reasons to cheer and celebrate your achievements. For the first time in 12 years, we saw our beloved Russian flag raised above the Paralympic podium and heard our national anthem with a special sense of pride and emotion – thanks to you. You have made the return of Russia’s key national symbols to the international stage truly triumphant, without exaggeration.

Skier Anastasia Bagiyan demonstrated outstanding performance. Together with her guide, Sergei Sinyakin, you left no chance to your competitors and ascended to the top step of the podium three times.

Varvara Voronchikhina displayed exceptional skill. The youngest member of our team, she opened the tally of victories for the Russian national team at the Games, securing medals in every discipline she competed in. Two golds, a silver, and a bronze in alpine skiing – this is simply splendid, a magnificent debut.

The Games were also triumphant for Ivan Golubkov – he twice proved his undisputed leadership in sit-ski races. We all know that Ivan has publicly declared that these victories are dedicated to Russia, to his country.

The most experienced athlete on our team, alpine skier Alexei Bugayev, brought a fitting conclusion to our team’s performance. By claiming two bronzes and the long-awaited gold medal, he propelled our team to what seemed an impossible third place in the overall standings.

Friends,

Your energy, focus on results, self-belief, and relentless training have led to a significant and meaningful success – both personal and on the scale of our vast country. Your performances and victories, your journey to success – these are a shining example of how one can and must overcome any life circumstances, always maintaining dignity and optimism, resilience and composure, and remaining true to one’s principles, traditions, and convictions.

Special words of gratitude go to those who have guided you towards victory for many years – your coaches. Under pressure and restrictions, and without adequate competitive practice, they have upheld the highest standards of the national coaching school, the very foundation of our Fatherland’s numerous sporting achievements, of its glorious history, which has been and will continue to be shaped by heroes like you.

Once again, I congratulate everyone on the outstanding success at the recent Paralympic Games. Thank you for your perseverance, hard work, and mastery.

Allow me to wish you further victories.

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