Website of the President of Russia: President: Transcripts

Meeting on ensuring the security of Russia’s eastern borders

2026-08-13T12:29:38+04:00

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

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Good afternoon, comrades,

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

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

Let us begin our work.

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Pacific Fleet drills

2026-08-12T16:22:34+04:00

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

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Mr Liina, comrades,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mr Liina, please.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This concludes my report.

Vladimir Putin: Thank you.

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Meeting of the Council for Science and Education

2026-08-12T22:04:28+04:00

Vladimir Putin chaired a meeting of the Council for Science and Education in Novosibirsk. Before the meeting, the President visited the Siberian Circular Photon Source Shared Research Centre (SKIF) and inspected the preparations for the launch of this megascience facility.

The Siberian Circular Photon Source – the world’s finest source of such radiation in the mid-energy range – will facilitate scientific research using synchrotron radiation beams and provide ultra-precise data on the structure of matter and atomic-level processes, including ultra-fast phenomena. Users of the SKIF facility will enjoy access to all requisite infrastructure, with research conducted around the clock. The centre’s capabilities will support not only theoretical investigations but also practical applications, including the development of advanced pharmaceuticals, as well as the examination of ancient artefacts without jeopardising their structural integrity.

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President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Good afternoon, colleagues.

Today, we are holding another meeting of the Council for Science and Education. The issues on our agenda are systemic and fundamental. We will discuss concrete decisions and mechanisms that will enable us to significantly accelerate and drive forward the development of future technologies.

To this end, it is imperative, first and foremost, that we address our priority objectives and effectively integrate Russia’s strategic scientific assets, in particular, our research schools and advanced digital computing resources, alongside the unique bioresource collections established by Nikolai Vavilov and other eminent Russian scientists – collections which, if memory serves, Peter the Great began assembling in 1714, I believe, in St Petersburg, at the Kunstkamera.

Remark: The Apothecary Garden.

Vladimir Putin: Quite right, the Apothecary Garden. Later, Nikolai Vavilov made an outstanding and truly world-class contribution. This endeavour continued to advance during the Soviet period. It is worth recalling the era of the Great Patriotic War, when scientists in Leningrad starved to death, yet did not consume a single grain, not a single potato tuber from these collections. All of this was amassed over centuries and decades, and handed down from generation to generation.

Of course, there is a wide network of megascience-class installations that can, without exaggeration, be used for research and experiments on a planetary scale.

This sort of integrated architecture will allow for the retrieval of as-yet-undiscovered knowledge and the operation of a colossal datasets on the environment, matter, organic and inorganic substances, to create conceptually new projects, materials, and complex systems on their basis.

I would like to highlight once again: it would be no exaggeration to say that in today’s world, literally everything hinges on how quickly we develop and, of course, implement innovations. This includes our sovereignty, economic development, solutions to civilian and crucial defence tasks that are currently technologically intertwined. In fundamental research, there has always been a dimension pertaining to defence and national security, prospective weaponry and military equipment.

Of course, these issues are not directly related to this council meeting, but we must clearly understand this when we set goals for science, including telecommunications, quantum technology, biotechnology, space, and new energy sources, including thermonuclear synthesis.

The comprehensive development programme for megascience-class installations is designed to address the large-scale and long-term objectives in these fields. As a result, Russia is definitely among the world leaders for such extremely complex scientific research infrastructure. Allow me to remind you – and I believe, participants in this project will never forget – that it was here, in the Academic Town, that the council decided to launch the megascience installation programme during its meeting in 2018. Valery Bukhtiyarov [Director of the Institute of Catalysis of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences] has just said that it is a result of my decisions. I struck the ball back to him: my decisions came in response to your requests and your vision of what holds the greatest importance and highest potential for fundamental research and its applications.

It has been a success. I have just seen this installation. It is truly impressive. We will certainly continue this work. I will say a few more words about this.

One of the projects discussed back then was the Siberian Circular Photon Source. We have just visited it. It is currently one of the most powerful particle accelerator in the world with some unique parameters that allows for exploring the world of atoms and molecules.

We expect its first research stations to be launched by this year-end. Russia has autonomously built around 30 units of critically important equipment (seven are currently in operation; the plan was to build 30 but it may go beyond that), including for this project, as our partners from other countries refused to supply such equipment.

Subsequently, we had to “push back” the launch of the Siberian Circular Photon Source, so to speak. However, we have become even stronger – this is certainly the case when we have become even stronger having built our competence in this field, our technological sovereignty and added more “technological keys” to our existing competences. Most certainly, we can and must take on new projects and scale up best solutions. Under no circumstances can we allow the newly created research and development teams to remain idle, the more so to decline. They should be able to fulfill all the plans we discussed in 2018, some of which are already in the pipeline.

Therefore, I suggest outlining further steps for developing new and modernising existing megascience infrastructure. Transformation and modernisation are underway at the Kurchatov Institute. All the paperwork is ready at Protvino, as far as I know. The Far Eastern Federal University on Russky Island is finilising respective proposals on the groundwork phase. At Gatchina, the work is showing fast progress across two fields. This project is in full swing.

The second point I wanted to talk about is that the logic behind scientific and technological development requires that approaches to the megascience infrastructure management and financing should be changed. Its expansion and application must become a priority when planning Russia’s science budget. Of course, we must prevent research results from hanging in the air without application. That would mean squandering colossal funds and years of painstaking efforts by invaluable scientists and research teams.

We must organise our work in such a way that domestic businesses and enterprises become the principal clients for breakthrough scientific solutions and technologies, assuming clear obligations to develop successful and competitive products on this basis. In fact, this process is already underway in biology, medicine, pharmaceuticals, materials science and many other disciplines. Our colleagues have just reported on this. Orders have already been placed, interested enterprises are participating, and our business community is demonstrating considerable enthusiasm, as is the state itself, across a range of sectors, including defence, chemistry, materials science and our energy companies. Let me reiterate that all these opportunities must serve the interests of both fundamental science and our domestic economy, healthcare and the social sphere.

The third point I would like to emphasise is that special and heightened attention must continue to be devoted to the national centres for genetic resources. The biological collections of plants, animals and micro-organisms in their custody are, without exaggeration, unique.

It is imperative to identify mechanisms for substantial financial and other forms of support for the development programmes of such centres, so that they can expand research in genetics, foster advanced developments in the bioeconomy, pharmaceuticals and food security, and cultivate human resource capacity to address not only present but also future challenges.

As regards human resources, I was pleased to meet with young scientists and school graduates – indeed, I was reluctant to leave: they are engaging young people, highly promising and forward-looking. These are precisely the individuals who are oriented towards the future. Here in Novosibirsk, a truly unique environment has been created: from school to university to full-scale research.

Let me add that all data available in Russia on genetic resources – animals, plants and micro-organisms, since we are discussing this matter – will be consolidated in the National Database of Genetic Information. The decision has been taken. Estimates suggest that approximately 10 petabytes of data will be uploaded to this database annually. Since we are addressing a broad audience, let me note that this equates to around five trillion pages of printed text. Naturally, all decisions in this area must under no circumstances result in an excessive monopoly or impede researchers in their work with the available materials, nor should they hinder the maintenance of scientific contacts with colleagues in other countries.

Fourth – such a vast unified digital repository of genomes, together with the entire megascience infrastructure, provides a colossal volume of scientific data, which must serve as the foundation for research and development efforts and, crucially, for the creation and training of Russian sovereign artificial intelligence models, both fundamental and sector-specific.

Accordingly, access to such unique databases should be granted to our scientific and educational organisations, high-technology companies and industrial enterprises. To this end, it is necessary to integrate all strategic scientific assets with computing capacity, supercomputers and sovereign cloud technologies – in essence, to construct a comprehensive platform ecosystem for the scientific and technological development of Russia. At the same time, it is essential to ensure the security and reliability of its operation in every respect, including the safeguarding of data that constitute the property of the Russian Federation.

Fifth, addressing the challenges I have just mentioned is a prerequisite for increasing the effectiveness of domestic science and organising research and development across the country. All our efforts in this area must be accompanied by a dramatic improvement in the quality of higher education and training. I have just described what is happening there.

In this regard, I would like to emphasise that we must continue our current course of developing advanced, truly strong universities and research centres in Russia’s regions. Where appropriate, we should consolidate the potential of research and higher education institutions working on related research and educational objectives.

The purpose of this approach is to improve the quality of education, create modern conditions for faculty and students, and increase support for talented researchers, leading departments and laboratories, and strong research teams capable of achieving significant results, conducting cutting-edge research, and training undergraduate and graduate students at the intersection of different scientific fields.

The establishment of such powerful research and educational centres in the regions, their continued operation, and the implementation of their development programs will naturally require additional funding. I ask the government to allocate the necessary funds from the draft federal budget for the next three years. I also ask the regions to actively support these centres, as they can become powerful growth points, drivers of regional development, and new opportunities for young people, teachers, and young researchers to unlock their potential.

In this regard, I would like to make one more decision. Currently, cutting-edge scientific, educational, and social infrastructure is being developed in the regions, including through programmes to build university campuses and create megascience facilities. Access to this infrastructure should not be exclusive or restricted. On the contrary, the idea is that scientists, teachers, students, universities, and research institutes from across the country should be able to make joint use of these modern facilities and opportunities. I ask the government to work out all the necessary organisational and legal mechanisms for this.

In conclusion, I would like to add one more thing: achieving practical, truly breakthrough results requires the maximum concentration of efforts by all participants in Russia’s scientific and technological development. An example of such team work – I have already mentioned it, but it is worth repeating – was demonstrated by our colleagues who worked on the creation of the Siberian Circular Photon Source. They included researchers from the Budker Institute of Nuclear Physics and the Boreskov Institute of Catalysis, Novosibirsk State University, Rosatom organisations, and the Kurchatov Institute. Its president, Mikhail Kovalchuk, is the ideologist and, one might say, the driving force behind the development of this megascience infrastructure. Let us begin today’s meeting by discussing plans for its further development.

Mr Kovalchuk, please, you have the floor.

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Vladimir Putin: Colleagues,

In conclusion, I would like to congratulate all of you on today’s event and thank those who were directly involved in creating the SKIF synchrotron.

This project did not mark the beginning of our work within this framework, or in terms of operating these capabilities at this scale. In fact, it builds on what was already achieved by those who came before us back in the Soviet era, and then by us over recent years. Someone rightly noted during this meeting that this will give a strong impetus to further developing education in Russia, science and research, and the key branches of manufacture and the economy, which can benefit from what megascience systems like this one have to offer.

While thanking you for this work, I would also like to recognise members of the Council for Science and Education for our joint work over the past year and, in fact, all these years. I hope that we will continue working in the same manner, while also implementing the projects and programmes we have discussed during today’s meeting.

Of course, my colleagues from the Presidential Executive Office and I will set out everything that was said today in the corresponding documents, and the Government of the Russian Federation will rely on them in its decision-making process.

Thank you. All the best to all of you.

Meeting of the State Council Presidium on the development of public transport

2026-08-12T16:55:42+04:00

Vladimir Putin chaired a meeting of the State Council Presidium on the development of public transport in the Russian Federation held in Ulan-Ude.

Keynote reports were delivered by Head of the Republic of Buryatia, Chairman of the State Council’s Effective Transport System Commission and Member of the State Council Presidium Alexei Tsydenov and Minister of Transport Andrei Nikitin. Head of the Executive Committee of the Russian Popular Front Mikhail Kuznetsov presented the results of monitoring attitudes to the operation of the public transportation system. Remarks and comments on issues under discussion also came from Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin, Murmansk Region Governor Andrei Chibis, Minister of Finance Anton Siluanov, Central Bank Governor Elvira Nabiullina, Interior Minister Vladimir Kolokoltsev, and Minister of Economic Development Maxim Reshetnikov.

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President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Colleagues, good afternoon,

Today, we are discussing a matter of paramount importance for millions of our fellow citizens: the development of public transport. Three years ago, we considered these issues and adopted a series of targeted decisions. Since then, we have seen certain positive developments; nevertheless, a considerable number of challenges persist in this sphere.

Public transport is about the ability to reach one’s workplace, kindergarten, school, university, or outpatient clinic quickly and in comfort. Let me recall that we have set ourselves the objective that, by 2030, in agglomerations and cities, the share of rolling stock whose service life does not exceed the prescribed standard should reach at least 85 percent. This requirement encompasses all forms of public transport and, I would underscore, also applies to towns with populations below 50,000. I would ask you to report today on how this task is being fulfilled.

At the same time, it is evident that the mere renewal of the fleet does not in itself guarantee convenient and high-quality transport services. It is essential that trolleybuses, trams, buses, and commuter trains adhere to their schedules, that passengers travel safely, and that fares remain accessible. This must be the case in our major metropolitan centres, in small towns, in rural areas, and indeed in remote localities – and, of course, in core communities.

Mobility is one of the fundamental factors of modern life. People must be confident that transport issues will in no way impede their plans or daily concerns, and that all the circumstances of Russian families’ lives will be duly taken into account. Accordingly, when organising transport services, we must respond to the requests of local residents and address the needs of large families. For instance, according to surveys conducted by the Russian Popular Front, the largest number of complaints concern violations of route schedules: sometimes – as is well known – buses arrive one after another in a convoy, while at other times people are left waiting for them for hours.

Colleagues,

Modernising public transport, alongside healthcare and housing and utilities, is a key priority for regional and municipal authorities. Our country already has examples of comprehensive, genuinely breakthrough public transport reforms that are genuinely focused on residents’ needs. Major cities such as Moscow, Nizhny Novgorod, Yekaterinburg, and Chelyabinsk are leading the way. The Omsk Region is a leader in digital integration, and the Kemerovo Region was among the first to introduce a contract-based system for public transport. Rapid modernisation is underway in Primorye and here, in Buryatia. In the Murmansk Region, transport is being improved with the northern Arctic environment in mind, and in the Ivanovo Region, a ground-level metro system recently opened.

These achievements are not only the result of budget funding and other investment instruments. Smart, forward-looking management approaches play a huge role – above all, the close alignment of transport systems with urban development policy, including consideration for the growth of core communities.

It is also important to make greater use of artificial intelligence capabilities to forecast demand and streamline schedules and route networks. Such technologies can dramatically improve the efficiency of public transport.

I would also ask you to bear in mind the need to implement quality standards for public transport, as required by current legislation. At present, only 34 Russian regions have adopted them. The Government, together with the State Council, should therefore assist the regions by developing a set of indicators that characterise the quality of public transport services.

Subsequently, it will be necessary to amend the Infrastructure for Life national project to include specific benchmarks. These will provide a basis for evaluating regional performance in this area.

Colleagues,

Upgrading public transport requires considerable financial investment. Overall, there is a clear trend towards modernisation across the country: modern buses, trams, and electric buses have appeared on our streets as a result of federal programmes, regional procurement, and leasing arrangements. Since 2020, over 20,000 vehicles have been replaced as part of this fleet renewal.

However, given the heavy burden on regional and municipal budgets, passenger transport remains one of the most vulnerable sectors. For most regions, addressing these challenges continues to be a challenge.

The relevant commission of the State Council has put forward proposals for additional funding sources. First and foremost, it proposes channelling a portion of road funds towards the modernisation of public transport and improving transport services. According to the authors, formalising such expenditure as a separate budget line would strengthen the guarantees and reliability of the state’s social obligations – since access to public transport is a fundamental condition for the realisation of citizens’ constitutional rights to work, education, healthcare, and so on. State Council representatives also have proposals for identifying sources to replenish road funds. Let us discuss all of this today.

Futhermore, the rules governing the provision of targeted subsidies for public transport development should allow for a broader range of uses, giving regions greater flexibility in deciding how to spend the allocated funds. This should include the development of public transport infrastructure, including passenger stops.

I repeat: regions have different financial potetials, and the terms of federal co-funding for transport purchases should take this into account.

Transport safety is extremely important. Public transport still includes many unscrupulous and even semi-criminal operators that violate transportation regulations and profit at the expense of safety. This situation must be brought under control.

I would also like to add that I am aware of the discussion surrounding the so-called “guaranteed carrier.” This would involve assigning certain transport companies responsibility for ensuring uninterrupted transport services in a particular region.

The law does not have a definition of this concept yet but clearly, it could be a promising approach. I ask the government and the relevant State Council commission to submit proposals on this issue, taking into account the development of financial and economic models for such carriers and, of course, the specifics of different regions.

The issue of monopolisation may arise here. Monopolies can have negative consequences, and this must certainly be taken into consideration. However, introducing this type of carrier would undoubtedly facilitate the systematic procurement of vehicles, which is also important, as it would provide, or at least increase, guaranteed demand for our industrial enterprises. We need to ensure a consistent pace of procurement. The government has already been instructed to address this issue, but it has not yet been fully resolved. It is also time to actively advance toward concluding long-term contracts covering several years. This would significantly facilitate production planning for vehicle manufacturers. I would like to ask my colleagues to take respective decisions on this matter.

Another important issue is the operation of public transport in our historical territories. We must pay close attention to restoring transport services, modernising the infrastructure, and expanding route networks.

A few words about commuter rail services. This is a complex issue, but it is of great, if not overwhelming importance to our citizens. I know that work is already underway. Moscow and the Moscow Region have jointly implemented a project to transform the traditional commuter rail system into an above-ground metro. Four Moscow Central Diameters have connected the capital with the Moscow Region, improving transport services for millions of people. I hope that all the necessary decisions on commuter rail services will be duly made.

Today, I focused on the most significant issues. The relevant State Council commission has examined this entire range of issues comprehensively and in detail, so I would like to ask you to speak briefly and to the point.

Let us get down to the discussion. I will give the floor to Chairman of the commission Alexei Tsydenov, Head of the Republic of Buryatia, where we are now.

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Vladimir Putin: Colleagues, does anyone want to add anything or make a comment? Anyone?

This is a very important matter. Of course, we must thank the State Council commission, Mr Tsydenov and his colleagues who worked on this agenda. However, this does not mean that there is no need to fine-tune these proposals. The Finance Minister and the Central Bank Governor have already raised this point during this meeting. We must make sure to hear them, since this is far from a trivial matter. The Interior Ministry also voiced its concerns. There are issues that require careful review.

Tightening the liability of transport operators in breach of regulations governing scheduled transit services is one such issue. Who will operate as a guarantor transport operator? This is about municipal enterprises. There was a proposal to have unitary municipal enterprises. But how can municipalities hold their own municipal enterprises to account?

Alexei Tsydenov: They account for 30 percent of transit.

Vladimir Putin: At the level of 30 percent, the corresponding anti-trust agencies must look into this issue. We have yet to see how it works out. In any case, there are questions which… I am not saying that this should not be approved, but there is no doubt that further improvements are needed. Is that agreed?

Overall, I would like to thank you for contributing to today’s meeting. Make no mistake, as I said in my opening remarks, this is undoubtedly one of the most important tracks in what we are doing together. I suggest that we further improve and adopt this list of instructions.

Thank you.

Meeting with urban environment and spatial development planners

2026-08-12T21:22:38+04:00

As part of his trip to Buryatia, Vladimir Putin had a meeting with leading representatives of urban planning and spatial development at the Dorzhi Banzarov Buryat State University in Ulan-Ude, which also hosted an exhibition titled Far East – From a Comfortable Urban Environment to a Master Plan. The agenda included matters dealing with urban development and improving public spaces in Russian regions.

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Friends, good afternoon.

First, I would like to congratulate all of you, since yesterday’s Builder’s Day is relevant for all of you, in one way or another. Please accept my heartfelt greetings on this occasion. What does it mean to be a construction worker, a builder? The notion itself tells it all. It describes someone who creates. Instead of deconstructing things and taking them apart down to a molecular level, these people do the opposite by creating something. For builders, this is more than a simple act of creation, since what they do consists of creating something that people need, such as housing, infrastructure, manufacturing sites, healthcare and cultural institutions.

Construction workers do the building, but in doing so they rely on plans drafted by specialists who have a creative profession and much in common with artists. Quite often, our country can pride itself on what they produce. Their creations can last centuries while reflecting a specific stage in the history of a specific country or state. This is more than a mere reflection since these creations embody and demonstrate the way people lived during a specific era, serving as an additional stepping stone for generating greater development momentum and moving forward.

As many of you know, I was born and raised in Leningrad. And I remember going to a competition as a teenager – I will not name the city – in a fairly large city. I had barely left Leningrad before that. I arrived, stepped out onto the station square, and was absolutely speechless.

I could never have imagined cities like that. They had plenty of buildings, but there was no real city – just a chaotic sprawl of development. It took me a while to work out why it was so. The thing is, I simply grew up in Leningrad, in the city centre, and I had absorbed that harmony since childhood. I assumed all cities were like that. Only later did I realise how important that harmony, etched in stone, really is. It shapes a person’s way of thinking, even their cultural DNA. That’s how significant your work is.

We are pushing ahead with the country’s spatial development on many fronts. A list of 2,160 anchor communities has been identified, as you know, which are home to 75 percent of Russia’s population. A development programme has been drawn up for these cities and towns, designed to strengthen the country’s economic, social, and infrastructural backbone, and to significantly improve the quality of life and living standards for millions of people. Crucially, it is also meant to support young people’s choice to stay in their hometowns or villages and build their futures there.

I would like to emphasise that active, systematic work is underway across all of these projects and programmes, and promising infrastructure initiatives are being delivered – and the credit for that goes directly to the specialists in the construction industry.

We are here now in the Trans-Baikal Territory, and we are paying particular attention to these areas – especially the Far East. Much has been achieved recently in terms of economic, industrial, and infrastructure development. But if we do not create vibrant public spaces, if we do not create the conditions for people to actually live well, we will not succeed. People will stay here only temporarily, and we will never build a stable environment where people want to put down roots and raise their children.

We have just reviewed the progress of the master plans in the Far Eastern regions. Overall, the pace is steady. I should note that the master plans are designed and implemented with the direct involvement of architects, urbanists, demographers, sociologists, and many other specialists. Of course, this approach is justified, correct and fruitful.

What is really important is that more members of the public should be involved in discussions of such projects. We are doing that, especially with respect to public spaces. The start was small, but the scale is growing. Our colleague Alexander Panin said that, the bigger the town or city, the lower the civic engagement in project selection; conversely, the smaller the town, the higher the percentage of participants. I can understand why: in large residential areas, most decisions are made by local officials. It may even be difficult sometimes to follow public opinion there, although, in my view, spaces like courtyards are also important and should be discussed with residents, especially since this certainly cultivates the feeling of engagement in these changes and builds trust in all levels of power.

I would like to stress a further aspect. When changing and rebuilding cities based on modern trends and using digital technology, we should try to preserve their original appearance and integrate new objects into the existing space wisely. This will maintain the historical feel of Russian cities and towns, their uniqueness, while also continuing and prolonging the life of cultural heritage sites. This multifaceted palette of diverse cities and regions is, without doubt, our legacy.

I thought about my own home town, St Petersburg. Bu t it concerns not only St Petersburg. There are many sites that require special attention from the state. I am confident that as one team, we can maximise the outcome of improving big and small cities, towns, villages and historical settlements here, in the Far East, Siberia, the Arctic, Donbass and Novorossiya – throughout the entire country.

This is essentially what I wanted to say at the beginning. I am at your disposal. Please.

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Builder’s Day greetings

2026-08-08T14:56:06+04:00

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Friends,

I extend my warmest greetings to current and former workers of Russia’s construction industry on their professional holiday – Builder’s Day.

Your work, experience, skill, and sense of responsibility are of paramount importance to the country’s development and to the realisation of its economic and industrial potential. This has always been the case. We take pride in the legacy created by previous generations: the distinctive character of our cities, and the bold design and engineering solutions they brought to life, not least during the Soviet era.

Today’s builders are the true heirs to the finest national traditions, and the construction industry stands as one of the most progressive and dynamic sectors – a reliable foundation for our continued progress.

This momentum is sustained by new factories, bridges, roads, and high-tech manufacturing and logistics complexes. World-class university campuses and advanced medical centres are taking shape in regions across the country. Each such project contributes to our national goals and to strengthening Russia’s leading position in a wide array of fields.

Above all, it is through your hard work that people’s quality of life is being transformed.

I would note that over the past decade, more than 955 million square metres of housing have been built across the country, and some 1.3 million people have received new apartments through programmes for relocation from dilapidated housing.

Alongside housing construction, the necessary infrastructure is also developing – and this is happening in every corner of the nation. For instance, through the National Competition for Projects to Create a Comfortable Urban Environment, modern, convenient, and yet distinct public spaces are emerging in small towns, historical villages, and key communities.

I would like to offer particular thanks to the construction workers labouring in our reunited territories and in regions affected by terrorist attacks. In very difficult conditions, sometimes under extremely tight deadlines, you are doing everything necessary to restore normal life, demonstrating both courage and dedication.

The work of everyone in this vital sector deserves the most sincere recognition.

Once again, I wish all the very best to all Russian builders, and wish you continued success and achievement, as well as health and prosperity for you and your loved ones.

Happy Builder’s Day!

Telephone conversation with Guards Colonel Abdulaziz Shikhabidov, Commander of the 76th Guards Airborne Assault Division

2026-08-07T10:51:47+04:00

Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with Guards Colonel Abdulaziz Shikhabidov, Commander of the 76^th Guards Air Assault Division.

The Supreme Commander-in-Chief heard a report on the combat situation along the line of contact in the Dobropolye tactical sector within the division’s area of responsibility and thanked the division’s personnel for their service in combat.

* * *

Abdulaziz Shikhabidov: Comrade Supreme Commander-in-Chief, good evening.

Colonel Shikhabidov, Commander of the 76^th Guards Air Assault Division, reporting.

Following the full liberation of the Kursk Region and the establishment of a buffer zone in the Sumy Region, the division, acting on the instructions of the Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, is carrying out combat missions as part of the Tsentr Group in the Dobropolye tactical sector.

Units of the division took part in completing the capture of Krasnoarmeysk and liberated Grishino, Novoalexandrovka, Vasilyevka, and Shevchenko. The division’s formations and units continue to take part in the liberation of the Donetsk People’s Republic.

Comrade Supreme Commander-in-Chief,

Combat operations are being conducted virtually without interruption through the active use of new tactics and methods of warfare and the continued improvement of unmanned systems capabilities and assets. To maintain the ability to conduct active combat operations, combat training activities are continuously held at the division’s training ranges for battalions undergoing restoration of their combat readiness.

In the course of combat operations in the Dobropolye tactical sector, enemy losses amounted to more than 6,000 personnel. Fourteen tanks, 140 armoured combat vehicles, 54 artillery pieces and mortars, and 210 motor vehicles were destroyed. Nineteen enemy personnel were taken prisoner, and more than 71 counterattacks were repelled.

There are no issues requiring attention. This concludes my report.

Vladimir Putin: How would you assess the overall morale of the troops? How are the men doing?

Abdulaziz Shikhabidov: Comrade Supreme Commander-in-Chief, morale is high and confident. We are ready to carry out all the tasks assigned to us.

Vladimir Putin: Good. And what do you think needs to be provided? Is there perhaps anything you are lacking?

Abdulaziz Shikhabidov: At present, as part of the group, if I may put it that way, we are keeping pace with the times and improving all our tactics and methods of operation, including practical operations on the front line and the use of modern technologies. We are not standing still; we are constantly improving.

Vladimir Putin: Are the tasks being assigned achievable within the specified timeframes?

Abdulaziz Shikhabidov: Yes, absolutely. All the deadlines being set are realistic.

Vladimir Putin: Good.

It was very important for me to hear that from you, as the commander of the 76th Division. It is a legendary division. I wish you every success.

Moreover, your division is operating at a good pace in the Dobropolye sector, at a faster pace than the other units operating alongside you. So I would like to thank you, your subordinates, and all the soldiers and commanders. Please convey my very best wishes and words of gratitude to them.

Abdulaziz Shikhabidov: Understood. I have received the task.

Meeting with Deputy Prime Minister – Plenipotentiary Presidential Envoy to the Far Eastern Federal District Yury Trutnev

2026-08-06T18:34:45+04:00

Vladimir Putin had a working meeting with Deputy Prime Minister – Plenipotentiary Presidential Envoy to the Far Eastern Federal District Yury Trutnev.

In his report, Yury Trutnev highlighted the high level of investment in the region and the increasing pace of industrial production, driven in part by the preferential business regimes introduced in the Far Eastern Federal District.

The meeting also covered the implementation of major infrastructure projects in Far Eastern cities, the construction of an innovation science and technology centre on Russky Island in Vladivostok, preparations for the 11^th Eastern Economic Forum, and the region’s contribution to the special military operation.

* * *

Deputy Prime Minister – Plenipotentiary Presidential Envoy to the Far Eastern Federal District Yury Trutnev: Mr President, in line with your instructions, we continue our work to develop the Russian Far East. September is approaching, and preparations for the 11^th Eastern Economic Forum are already underway. The previous forum – the tenth – was held in 2025 and made a significant contribution to the development of the Russian Far East. More than 300 agreements worth over six trillion rubles were signed. Representatives of 75 countries took part, and the forum brought together more than 8,000 participants.

Mr President, you set us the target of attracting 12 trillion rubles in investment by 2030. I am pleased to report that we remain on track to achieve this goal. We had planned to reach 5.8 trillion rubles this year.

Vladimir Putin: You exceeded that target, right?

Yury Trutnev: We did. The current figure stands at 6.5 trillion rubles. So, we will keep working.

Vladimir Putin: You exceeded the targets in previous years as well.

Yury Trutnev: We did our best.

Vladimir Putin: And it paid off.

Yury Trutnev: Thanks to the decisions you have taken, the Far East’s key development indicators now surpass the Russian average.

Investment has increased by 50 percent, industrial production is up 20 per cent, manufacturing has grown by 80 percent, and construction volumes are 50 percent higher.

Vladimir Putin: This is precisely the outcome we were aiming for.

Yury Trutnev: Mr President, this has been made possible by your decisions to establish a preferential regime.

Vladimir Putin: This was our joint effort. Very good.

Yury Trutnev: Thank you very much.

The 10th Eastern Economic Forum, as I mentioned, attracted 6.1 trillion rubles in investment commitments. A number of projects are already underway, including the Milkansky Mining and Processing Plant, the Nakhodka Fertiliser Plant, and the PoliDeKastri Oil Refinery. For 2026, we aim to sign an even larger portfolio of agreements – 380 in total, worth 6.5 trillion rubles.

We would like to invite you to take part in the launch of several new enterprises. These include the Amur Gas Chemical Complex, created on your direct instructions, and Udokan Copper, which is commissioning a copper cathode production facility. The first stage of the Nakhodka Mineral Fertiliser Plant is also coming on stream. Work has begun on the Severomuysky Tunnel, with tunnelling now underway, alongside a number of other significant projects.

Vladimir Putin: With pleasure.

Yury Trutnev: Thank you very much.

We regard the implementation of master plans for Far Eastern cities as a most important task. In line with your decision, master plans have been developed for 25 cities, covering 4.2 million residents of the Far East – more than half the region’s population. The total estimated cost stands at 3.6 trillion rubles. Investment on this scale has never before been made in the Far East. To date, 48 percent of the programme has been funded, with 233 projects worth 83 billion rubles already completed and a further 384 currently under construction.

These include transport facilities, such as airports in Ulan-Ude, Magadan, Yelizovo, and Blagoveshchensk. There are also a number of educational facilities, including the SakhalinTech campus, a kindergarten in Khabarovsk, and a school in Magadan. In addition, numerous public spaces have been developed, such as Mayak Park in Magadan, Bagulnik Park in Tynda, and Lenin Square in Yakutsk.

Several healthcare facilities have been built, including polyclinics in Ulan-Ude and Vladivostok and a central district hospital in Neryungri. We are also continuing to build housing, sports facilities and cultural venues.

We attach great importance to the development of science and technology. In line with your instructions, an Innovation Science and Technology Centre is being established on Russky Island. Construction is already underway there, and 16 resident companies have been registered. They are working in such fields as biotechnology, biomedicine, and pharmaceuticals.

In addition, together with the Ministry of Industry and Trade, we are working to launch two microelectronics manufacturing facilities.

Vladimir Putin: Are the research and education centres already operating?

Yury Trutnev: Yes, they are.

Mr President, a number of Russian scientists are returning to Russia. They are ready to continue their work at the innovation science and technology centre. If you have the time and opportunity to meet with them, we would greatly appreciate it.

Vladimir Putin: With pleasure. In that case, please include such a meeting in the schedule.

Yury Trutnev: Thank you.

I would also like to mention the special administrative district on Russky Island. It has enabled the repatriation of 6.2 trillion rubles’ worth of assets to the Russian jurisdiction. A total of 138 companies have registered there, and they have paid 86 billion rubles.

Vladimir Putin: In taxes?

Yury Trutnev: Exactly. We are currently building a new business centre on Russky Island for companies registered in the special administrative district.

We also attach great importance to supporting the special military operation. The Patrioticheskaya Advanced Special Economic Zone is now operating in the Far East. Through this mechanism, more than 600,000 items have been delivered to the combat zone.

I also believe it is important that 3,600 state and municipal employees, as well as staff of the Ministry for the Development of the Russian Far East and Arctic and the Office of the Presidential Plenipotentiary Envoy, have also gone through the school of combat training. I believe this has strengthened their motivation and made them better prepared to carry out important assignments.

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Message to the participants in the 8th Russia-Kyrgyzstan Economic Forum and the 12th Russia-Kyrgyzstan Inter-Regional Conference

2026-08-06T10:57:53+04:00

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Friends,

I extend my heartfelt greetings to all participants, organisers and guests of two major events held by Russia and Kyrgyzstan – the economic forum and the inter-regional conference, both commencing today. Of course, I would like to thank President of the Kyrgyz Republic Sadyr Japarov for supporting these instrumental undertakings and for his personal commitment to strengthening mutually beneficial cooperation between our countries.

More than 1,000 participants representing Russia and Kyrgyzstan have gathered at Lake Issyk-Kul, including heads of regions, senior officials from government institutions, business leaders, prominent academics, civil society leaders, and executives from development institutions. These are the very people whose actions on the ground help expand and promote the strategic partnership and alliance between Russia and Kyrgyzstan in all their aspects, with a primary focus on the economic dimension.

The agenda for the forum and the conference covers a wide range of diverse topics, including strengthening cooperation in trade, investment and manufacturing, as well as in agriculture, transport, digital transformation and tourism. In addition, the Russia-Kyrgyzstan and Kyrgyzstan-Russia business councils are scheduled to hold their respective meetings, along with an offsite session of the St Petersburg International Economic Forum.

It has been a source of great satisfaction that Russian and Kyrgyz governments and agencies, businesses and regional governments have been so effective in coordinating their efforts, which has helped build a solid economic foundation for promoting bilateral cooperation. Mutual trade has become increasingly diversified. It expanded by 26 percent in 2025 and exceeded $5 billion.

The Russia-Kyrgyzstan Development Fund has been very effective and has already provided funding for about four thousand joint projects in various sectors of the Kyrgyz economy, worth over $1 billion. This funding went towards creating and upgrading several plants and enterprises, creating new manufacturing capabilities and jobs, while increasing Kyrgyzstan’s export potential.

There are over 2,000 companies with Russian participation in Kyrgyzstan. Moreover, they include not only major corporations but also SMEs, which have been proactively involved in import substitution programmes and making competitive products with high added value. Russia’s Federal Corporation for the Development of Small and Medium Enterprises has been offering practical assistance to programmes of this kind, which are carried out by Russia and Kyrgyzstan.

Energy has always been one of the key sectors in terms of our bilateral cooperation. Russia has been making a meaningful contribution to developing Kyrgyzstan’s energy infrastructure and creating new generating capacity. This year, we have plans to launch a 300-megawatt photovoltaic power station in the country’s east. Preparations for building a state-of-the-art wind farm are underway in the same region.

Russia and Kyrgyzstan have been closely working together in the humanitarian sector, including education, science, culture and sport through civil society and youth organisations. People-to-people ties between our two countries also enjoy positive momentum.

We are continuing to build nine schools with a curriculum in the Russian language and a campus for the Slavic University in Bishkek. Russia regularly sends textbooks and excellent teachers to schools and higher education institutions in Kyrgyzstan. The agenda in this domain includes the upcoming inauguration of a joint educational centre on IT and cybersecurity in Nizhny Novgorod.

In all, there is a lot of potential for promoting mutually beneficial cooperation between Russia and Kyrgyzstan. I am convinced that by continuing to work together as partners, Russian and Kyrgyz businesses and regions will make an integral contribution to fuelling economic growth and improving the wellbeing of our people.

I wish all participants in the economic forum and the inter-regional conference fruitful work, constructive networking, every success in their undertakings and all the best.

Thank you for your attention.

Meeting with Chairman of the Russian Union of Theatre Workers Vladimir Mashkov

2026-08-06T14:24:00+04:00

The President held a meeting with Chairman of the Russian Union of Theatre Workers, theatre and film actor and director Vladimir Mashkov.

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Mr Mashkov, the Union of Theatre Workers is marking its 150^th anniversary. Please tell me about the events programme.

Chairman of the Russian Union of Theatre Workers Vladimir Mashkov: Thank you very much for this meeting and the opportunity to tell you in person about the 150th anniversary. Thanks to your executive order and the well-coordinated creative work of the Organising Committee, the celebration programme is quite remarkable.

Allow me to tell you briefly about our organisation. The Union of Theatre Workers is the largest creative association in Russia.

Vladimir Putin: It has 30,000 members.

Vladimir Mashkov: Yes, almost 30,000 theatre workers and the number is growing. We have 82 regional branches. In the past two years, we have opened regional branches in the Donetsk and Lugansk People’s Republics, and the Zaporozhye and Kherson regions.

We are currently preparing for the opening of our representative office in Abkhazia and setting up a youth council. Naturally, a large number of young people are closely involved in our common cause. Our entire large creative team has organised this anniversary. It was launched on January 17 with our new professional holiday, Performing Artist’s Day, supported by the Government. This holiday is for artists of all genres and forms of art – theatre, variety entertainment, film, circus, and even athletes, because artistic performance is an important part of assessment in some sports.

You know, Denis Fonvizin once offered a very accurate distinction between an actor and an artist. His witty remark goes something like this: an actor is a talented performer, and an artist is a creator. It is with the understanding of this mission that we came together for the first time. And I hope these meetings will continue. I think they are very important for our consolidation.

One of the key projects of this anniversary year, created with Russian Railways, is Theatre Train. Two beautiful modern trains, beautifully decorated. One departed from Vladivostok for Moscow and the other from Sevastopol to Moscow. Five thousand performers rotated during the trip through 43 cities, with Moscow being the 44th city. Thousands of people greeted them at Kievsky Railway Station. Two-day festivals took place in every city, bringing them to life with busy creative programmes.

I’d like to tell you one moving story. The train called at a small station called Sosnovye Rodniki for maintenance. It is near the town of Oktyabrsky in the Irkutsk Region. People from the town came out to look at the train. What is it? Actors were standing outside. The people asked them to recite something. The actors started reciting poems and singing. Children gathered. There is one unique carriage called the Puppet Theatre, with seats for the audience. The actors performed a play for the children. Then, the train departed. The locals pleaded for them to come back again, even if only for a pit stop. We have a preliminary agreement with Russian Railways to continue this project next year. It has united our entire creative country. This is very important.

Vladimir Putin: In total, 280 performances, correct?

Vladimir Mashkov: More than 280 performances, meet-the-artist events and workshops. It was popular in every city. I believe about 6,000 people greeted the train in Tomsk. There was a city march. Filling cities with art was fascinating. The train is incredibly beautiful.

The Russia National Exhibition Centre is hosting an exhibition called Theatre Legacy: The Masters. More than 100 teams organised this exhibition, which includes 600 exhibits. We show the backstage life, mainly for the youngest generation. The exhibition offers 17 themed interactive experiences where kids can try their hand at prop design, art, and stage lighting. Visitors come out quite emotional. Stanislavsky once said very accurately about young people: “To do something successfully, one needs passion, feeling, and desire.” If we can spark this passion, young people may want to choose a theatre job or fall in love with theatre as viewers. One can’t live without theatre.

The central event of our anniversary year is the Russia – Theatre – Society National Marathon Festival. It is currently taking place at Zaryadye from August 1 to 9. All federal districts have presented their performances and excerpts from them. Events are being held outdoors, with artists actively participating.

Vladimir Putin: The companies have come from the regions, right?

Vladimir Mashkov: The companies have indeed arrived. Each day, a different federal district presents its performances.

The opening took place on August 1, and more than 5,000 people came to watch the entire spectacle.

Vladimir Putin: And where are the audience seated?

Vladimir Mashkov: An improvised stage has been constructed within the amphitheatre, with the Kremlin as its backdrop. It is, without doubt, a remarkable and picturesque venue. From morning until late evening, activities are held there for children and teenagers, and in the evening a performance is staged.

This format – of theatres taking to the streets during the summer – is gaining momentum. Theatre Boulevard has now been operating in Moscow for a second year, with the support of the Government. This year, it has already attracted more than one million visitors. On every boulevard, people are drawn into the event in one way or another, which, to my mind, embodies a certain social optimism. Suddenly, people can bring their children, or simply come themselves to watch, and there are open-air cinemas as well. I believe this makes every city an even better place in which to live: it is uplifting to go out, to engage in conversation, to support a cause, or even to debate a point.

Another key area is the development of a concept for the development of theatrical art until 2035. We have held theatre forums in all federal districts, with more than 1,300 participants, including representatives and heads of leading theatres, directors and artists. In a sense, this serves as our roadmap. Why has everyone engaged in this work with such enthusiasm? Because this concept has not been imposed from above – we have devised it ourselves. There are many challenges, yet the goal remains singular: we must, no matter what, develop and preserve our great multinational culture. We intend to present this concept at the St Petersburg Forum of United Cultures, and perhaps it will provide the foundation for our subsequent steps.

Vladimir Putin: This will take place in the autumn, will it not?

Vladimir Mashkov: It will indeed be in the autumn, so we are already preparing for it. The concept is currently undergoing coordination ahead of approval by a Government order. Ultimately, we will present it at the forum.

We have developed a new concept and format for the country’s main theatre award, the Golden Mask. It is already 33 years old. It was on the brink and almost died three years ago but we managed to keep it alive. Today, we are seeking to rebuild trust within the professional community and among theatre fans. The Golden Mask innovated by leaving Moscow for the first time.

Last year, we held the award ceremony in Kazan, in the newly opened Galiaskar Kamal Tatar Academic Theatre. We spent several wonderful days there, full of creative undertakings, attended by both masters of theatre and the younger generation.

In 2026, we held the ceremony in Omsk, which is this year’s cultural capital. Once again, we spent several days celebrating theatre, which was probably one of the main events on Omsk’s cultural agenda.

We have been paying special attention to ethnic theatres. The Federation festival in Grozny has been one of our flagship projects. It used to take place once every two years, but has since evolved into an annual event. The Government of the Chechen Republic has been supporting us. Grozny is certainly a beautiful city. We innovated by including Russian theatre in the ethnic theatre programme. We will present a Cossack Theatre since this year was designated as the Year of Unity of the Peoples of Russia.

If you look at the acronym of the Year of Unity of the Peoples of Russia [in Russian], you get GEN, i.e. genome, of Russia. This demonstrates that unity is part of our DNA. The festival offers a spectacular experience with all the participating theatres, workshops and youth outreach initiatives. This year, it will take place from September 29 to October 6. We are looking forward to this encounter.

We want to bring our entire community together, and therefore we have introduced a new tradition. For the second year, we have laid flowers at our sacred site – by the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. All theatre directors and heads of theatres stood together to pay tribute to our great ancestors. Our regional branches have joined this initiative as well, and now every year artists come out to honour their memory.

You know, we are standing there, with many veterans in the line, and I am standing next to our great actor Stanislav Lyubshin, whom you know very well. We are standing, there is a minute of silence, and I ask him: “Mr Lyubshin, where did you celebrate Victory Day?” He is 93 years old, in excellent creative form, still performing on stage and engaged in public work. He said: “Vladimir, I was 12 years old, and at six in the morning, as always, I was standing in line for milk. We stood there for about five hours. We stood and stood, but there was nothing. And then suddenly doors and windows started opening. People ran out, shouting something, but we were standing in the queue and did not understand what was happening. Then suddenly the door opened, a happy shop assistant came out and said: “Comrades, victory! There will be no milk.” He says: “We ran home, happy.”

These are the moments when our society comes together. Theatre, moreover, has always preserved and will continue to preserve memory, just as ethnic theatres preserve languages. It is the only place where national language, as well as the Russian language, will be preserved: on stage. In this sense, these efforts are extremely important for everyone. Even small ethnic theatres say: Suddenly, we are losing native speakers. They have to go to villages to find actors. But I believe it is very important to preserve our great Russian language.

We pay much attention to our veterans. We have established a departmental medal, Saving the Faith and the Fatherland, for veterans of the special military operation. It is awarded both to servicemen and to performers who travel to the war zone to support the soldiers. And now, within the Union of Theatre Workers, we have opened a separate branch where we will talk with them about drama, help them enter a new, peaceful life. It is a major effort.

You know, at the Sovremennik Theatre we have a wonderful actor Yevgeny Pavlov. He has been serving in the special military operation zone for more than three years. He is now part of the first frontline creative brigade. And when we have people like this – and there are many of them, both on the line of contact and in theatres, as well as among young people – then, of course, there is no doubt that victory will be ours. We will preserve both our country and our great culture.

Vladimir Putin: And there will be milk, too.

Vladimir Mashkov: And there will be milk. So thank you very much for your support of our creative community.

We will review the results of this anniversary year at our congress, which is held once every five years, on October 23. If you have the opportunity to meet with the entire Russian theatre community, we would like to invite you.

Vladimir Putin: I will certainly do my best to make it happen.

Vladimir Mashkov: Thank you very much.

Vladimir Putin: Thank you.

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Meeting with Chairperson of the Central Election Commission Ella Pamfilova

2026-08-05T21:03:51+04:00

Vladimir Putin had a meeting with Chairperson of the Central Election Commission Ella Pamfilova in the Kremlin to discuss preparations for the single voting day, with a focus on election security.

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Ms Pamfilova, preparations for elections are in full swing, as I see it. How many election campaigns are being held this year? Around 2,200?

Chairperson of the Central Election Commission Ella Pamfilova: I have prepared a report for you with all the relevant statistics.

But, Mr President, I would like to begin with something else. I know how much attention you have devoted to ensuring the security of the upcoming elections and how many instructions you have issued on this matter. Later, I would like to discuss that aspect in greater detail and thank you for everything that has already been done.

Let me first share some statistics. We held the draw today. Of the 17 political parties eligible to participate in federal elections, 11 indicated their intention to do so, and all 11 have been registered. The draw took place earlier today, determining the order in which the parties will appear on the ballot. A total of 3,103 candidates have been registered.

Vladimir Putin: How did the draw turn out? Who came first, second, third?

Ella Pamfilova: Everything was conducted fairly, using a transparent lottery drum. United Russia drew the first position.

Vladimir Putin: Who drew the lot?

Ella Pamfilova: Alexander Karelin. Although, to be honest, his hand wouldn’t fit into the drum, so a young woman had to help him.

Vladimir Putin: Well, he is a champion, he is used to coming first.

Ella Pamfilova: You know, this is actually a first for United Russia. Previously, the Communist Party of the Russian Federation drew the first position twice in a row.

Among the 3,103 registered party-list candidates, roughly one-third are women and two-thirds are men. There is also a significant number of young candidates: 21 percent are under the age of 35, while about 70 percent are between 35 and 65, and nine percent are over 65. Overall, the parties’ candidate lists have become noticeably younger – I would even say substantially younger than in previous elections.

At present, 110 candidates on federal party lists are participants or veterans of the special military operation. Of those, United Russia has registered 52, Rodina has 12, the Liberal Democratic Party of Russia has 11, A Just Russia has 11, the Communist Party of the Russian Federation has nine, the Russian Party of Pensioners for Social Justice has seven, Communists of Russia has three, The Greens has three, New People has two, while Yabloko and the Direct Democracy Party have not nominated any. So, participants in the special military operation are well represented among the candidates, and naturally, we are paying particular attention to them.

Of course, as for security, I want to say the following, Mr President. Certainly, the main difference of this campaign from the one to elect State Duma deputies in 2021, is that we are to solve a most difficult task because we will hold the elections in an extreme situation since, I would say, we can expect now absolutely anything from the Kiev gang of child killers. We are aware of this, and we are taking unprecedented security measures. Meanwhile – and this is the difference of this campaign – we will provide for the previously achieved high level of openness and transparency; security combined nevertheless with openness and transparency. Naturally, we are taking all security measures.

Thank you for having this issue considered at the Security Council, for instructing to do it. Very much has been done for the elections to be held normally and for us to cope with all these threats.

Of course, we have prepared both alternative spaces and alternative energy sources. We had joint drills with the Emergencies Ministry and the Interior Ministry as well as other relevant agencies, we have assigned commission members responsible for security in emergency situations. We hope for the better but are getting ready for the worst. In this case, everything will be all right. We also need to have those in charge of evacuation, fire security, assistance to law enforcement officers on site for preventing provocations. Actually, we have to be ready for anything.

I think, I hope and I am even sure, given that we will do the necessary work, that we will be prepared.

Vladimir Putin: Ms Pamfilova, those who wish to participate in the democratic procedures for the formation of government do so in spite of any threats whatsoever. Those who do not wish to will inevitably find a pretext for refraining from doing so.

Ella Pamfilova: Yet they do fight, and they kill our children. That is what they capable of doing. You know, it makes one’s fists clench.

Today, both strength of will and determination are growing – not merely to withstand this evil, but to overcome it. The elections – properly conducted elections – and those who will attend… Our soldiers are fighting heroically there, fighting on our behalf. Yet, forgive me, for us here, leading peaceful lives, to unite, to go to the polls, to cast our votes and thereby make even a modest contribution to our victory – that, I believe, is nothing less than our duty.

Vladimir Putin: This demands courage and a responsible approach to the formation of government from all those involved in this process and, above all, from those who organise these elections. The unity of our society hinges upon the legitimacy of this government. And it is chiefly women who carry out this work – predominantly women, am I correct?

Ella Pamfilova: Yes, 80 percent.

Vladimir Putin: Incidentally, among the candidates – as I have observed personally and as you have just mentioned – there are not so very many women: 26 percent, whilst men account for 74 percent.

Ella Pamfilova: Even so, the process is advancing. Within our system, an ever-increasing number of women are assuming senior positions. At present, we have provided for nine forms of voting. In order to keep the public as fully informed as possible, this time – and we have 36 regions with hard-to-reach areas – we are actively seeking to employ, among other means, unmanned vehicles – both airborne and waterborne – to deliver ballots and documentation, thereby easing the burden, naturally, for our women, who reach every voter there by dog sledge and reindeer sledge.

Credit where it is due: the InformUIK project is now being implemented. You have before you the leaflets containing the appeal – they will be delivered personally to every family; our people will reach every voter, for this is a mark of respect – we value every individual, every vote.

At present, we are informing the public: a metro train has been launched, Russian Railways will have one as well, and so will the funiculars – everywhere, information will be available that the elections are under way. We are employing every method and form to inform the public. It now rests with the people, our voters – armed with this information and weighing it carefully – to come to the polls and make their choice.

Vladimir Putin: I am confident that the people understand this and will respond accordingly. Thank you.

<…>

Meeting with Belgorod Region Acting Governor Alexander Shuvayev

2026-08-05T18:39:18+04:00

Alexander Shuvayev reported to the President on his current performance as acting governor of the region.

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Mr Shuvayev, how are you doing?

I understand you are getting up to speed.

Acting Governor of the Belgorod Region Alexander Shuvayev: Yes, Mr President. I visit the municipalities every day. Over the past two and a half months, I have visited every one of them. I meet with residents, identify the problems they raise, and then, based on the list of assignments we have compiled, we address each issue, whether it is a proposal from local residents or a problem that needs to be fixed.

I also pay attention to security elements, which remain our top priority. Over the past two weeks, the number of attacks and shelling incidents has increased. Working together with the Ministry of Defence and the BARS-Belgorod volunteer unit, we have established a system under which we are now intercepting more than 50 percent of fixed-wing drones using systems currently undergoing field testing here. [Moscow Mayor] Sergei Sobyanin has also pledged further support for the development of this system. He continues to assist us by providing security equipment, and we are working together to further improve these capabilities.

Vladimir Putin: I understand that ensuring people’s safety and protecting their lives and health is the key priority today. At the same time, we must not lose sight of social issues or the region’s economic development. When it comes to social policy, one of the key challenges is increasing the number of doctors and other medical professionals per capita. There are other issues as well, and we will get down to them all shortly.

I am pleased to see that you have become completely involved in the work, and you are getting a feel for the situation in the region, and, most importantly, for the people’s needs.

I know you have prepared a number of documents and proposals. We will go over everything carefully and in detail now. It is good to see you.

<…>

Meeting with Defence Ministry leadership

2026-08-05T15:29:33+04:00

The meeting was attended by the Minister of Defence, the Chief of the General Staff, and the commanders and chiefs of staff of the Tsentr and Vostok groups of forces.

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Comrades, good afternoon.

As you are aware, we continue to refine the structure of the Defence Ministry in response to the demands and lessons of the special military operation.

You will also be aware that a decision was recently taken to consolidate all arms-related matters – including the functions of both procurement and supply agencies – under a single post. This work within the Ministry is being led by Deputy Minister Alexander Sanchik, who until recently served with distinction as commander of one of our groups of forces.

At the suggestion of the Defence Minister, a further decision has been made to consolidate all logistics services under a single position. I would emphasise that, in today’s environment, this is very much a combat assignment. I have appointed Valery Solodchuk to this role, and that is my decision.

Mr Solodchuk, I mentioned at the outset that Alexander Sanchik was only recently appointed to the post of Deputy Minister. He is a combat officer, much like yourself, with a solid record as a commander who skilfully led troops on the ground. Now he is taking on a different set of responsibilities.

But I would also like to address you, Mr Solodchuk. We know each other well, and you are without question one of the most talented commanders serving today. I described leading logistics services as a combat role for a reason. I have every confidence that you will bring your best organisational abilities to bear here. Moreover, no one knows better than the commanders on the ground, district and group commanders like yourself, what our troops, our soldiers, and our officers actually need at this moment. We will discuss that separately.

Of course, the Tsentr group of forces is one of our principal formations, entrusted with the most critical and responsible missions aimed at liberating the Donetsk People’s Republic. The question of who should lead this group and assume command is by no means straightforward. I would like to invite Andrei Ivanayev to take up this assignment.

Mr Ivanayev possesses an in-depth understanding not only of his own area of responsibility, but also of that of the Tsentr group of forces, as the two commanders have worked closely together and continue to do so. It is of paramount importance that the effectiveness of combat operations in this sector is maintained. I am confident that Mr Ivanayev will successfully carry out this task.

With regard to the next matter – the question addressed to Mr Ivanayev himself as to who, in his judgement, should take command of the Vostok group of forces, which is conducting operations with vigour, energy and a tempo that deserves the highest praise. On Mr Ivanayev’s recommendation, the group’s Chief of Staff, Pyotr Bolgarev, is appointed Acting Commander of the Eastern Military District and, accordingly, Commander of the Vostok group of forces.

Mr Bolgarev, you have worked in close coordination with Andrei Ivanayev. I hope that you will continue to carry out joint tasks together, and that your efforts will be just as effective as they have been under Mr Ivanayev’s command.

Finally, as you all know, we have decided to establish a new branch within the Armed Forces – the Unmanned Systems Forces. The task before us was to identify an individual who has demonstrated excellence in this sphere. We consider Denis Lyamin, who has until now served as Chief of Staff of the Tsentr group of forces, to be one of the most highly qualified specialists in this field.

Mr Lyamin, this new branch of the Armed Forces is only beginning to take shape. I hope that you – and the Defence Minister and the Chief of the General Staff share this view – will, as one of our most qualified specialists, complete the establishment of the Unmanned Systems Forces and assume command of them in the near future.

Comrades officers, I would like to thank you for your service in your previous posts and to express my confidence that your combat experience, your personal and professional qualities, and your organisational skills will serve you well in addressing new tasks. Thank you for everything you have accomplished so far. Please convey my sincere gratitude to all your soldiers and commanders.

And, of course, I would like to hear your assessment of the current situation along the line of contact, as well as reports from the Defence Minister and the Chief of the General Staff on the overall situation and on the areas of responsibility of the groups of forces you have commanded until now.

<…>

Meeting with ALROSA CEO Pavel Marinychev

2026-08-04T19:04:28+04:00

Vladimir Putin heard the report on the diamond mining company’s performance, including the creation of Europe’s largest diamond-cutting cluster in Smolensk, exploration of hard-to-reach diamond deposits, gold mining, and jewellery production. ALROSA’s energy projects, including its participation in the construction of the Novolenskaya thermal power plant and the modernisation of the Svetlinskaya hydroelectric power plant in Yakutia, were discussed on a separate basis.

ALROSA CEO Pavel Marinychev: Mr President, thank you very much for finding time for this meeting. I would like to report on our company’s performance.

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Your reserves are estimated at one billion carats, correct?

Pavel Marinychev: Yes.

Vladimir Putin: This amounts to roughly 50 percent of the world’s diamond reserves.

Pavel Marinychev: Correct, somewhere around that level.

Vladimir Putin: As for diamond production, you account for about 30 percent of the global output.

Pavel Marinychev: The 30 percent figure applies to the volume in carats.

Vladimir Putin: You may now proceed with your report.

Pavel Marinychev: Mr President, as you know, the global diamond industry is currently experiencing the deepest sectoral crisis in its entire history. In addition to that, ALROSA and several other companies are conducting their operations while facing sanctions. Despite these conditions, we have been able to retain our global leadership as the number one diamond producer in the world, while ranking second in terms of revenue. Our group employs about 33,000 people, and we produce about 30 million carats annually.

Speaking of our production capacity, as you have just said, we hold almost half of the world’s reserves, which includes five mining and processing plants, as well as over 20 operating deposits. Apart from diamond deposits, there are also gold mines, which I will discuss a little later. We have started developing and using them too.

In addition, ALROSA is a vertically integrated company. It operates Europe’s largest diamond-cutting cluster at the Kristall plant in Smolensk. In fact, this facility is going through what can be called its second or third revival. What I mean is that in keeping with your instructions we worked with the Government of the Russian Federation and the governments of the Smolensk Region and the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) to create a diamond-cutting cluster, which includes this plant. We have used the available space to enable private, small diamond cutters, including foreign operators, to work there, acquire new competencies and develop their businesses.

ALROSA also operates jewellery production facilities. We have a range of our own jewellery brands, which are available in Russia through a small but growing chain of jewellery stores. Therefore, ALROSA today covers all aspects from exploration to jewellery sales.

Furthermore, ALROSA operates its own logistics complex, which comprises ALROSA Airline, a river port, a shipping company, and proprietary energy assets such as a hydropower plant and a range of gas assets. Clearly, social facilities are also considered an important part of our company’s infrastructure. It is our established practice to operate cultural and sports facilities at our expense in the cities where we are present. This allows residents of the Mirny municipality and our regions of presence, as well as our employees, to use this infrastructure at discounted rates or essentially free of charge.

Despite the negative market conditions, we remain a major taxpayer and employer, particularly in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia), where we are an absolute leader in social responsibility.

How did we achieve this? In fact, we have conducted a rather rigorous optimisation of operational costs. In percentage terms, we have cut 25 percent of all costs. Usually, one either cuts investment or wages. We have cut all gross costs – 65 billion rubles, which is a substantial amount for us.

Our operational philosophy in these current unstable conditions is that, even with such lean operations, we keep our development projects afloat. Some of them are active, under construction or nearing completion. Those set for construction are being provided with all necessary paperwork and moving into the prospecting phase. Once macroeconomic and market conditions allow, we will not have to wait and will be able to launch construction immediately.

What are these projects? First and foremost, these are our diamond mining projects. The reality is that easily accessible diamond deposits have already been exhausted, and future production will require a transition from open-pit to underground mining. We are preparing all the necessary documentation and conducting the required geological surveys so that, as I have said, we are ready to move forward as soon as macroeconomic conditions permit.

Our flagship initiative is, without question, the Mir – Gluboky project, which will enable us to maintain our undisputed global leadership in the long term. This project is expected to sustain production through 2070.

We are also pursuing a number of diversification projects. We have decided to expand our expertise into other hard-rock mineral resources. In particular, we acquired the Degdekan gold deposit in the Magadan Region, where verification drilling has now been completed. We are currently designing a new mining enterprise for gold production.

We have also found several small placer gold deposits located close to our existing diamond mining infrastructure. Mining operations have already begun at one of them: the Khatystakh deposit in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia).

As I previously reported, Mr President, we have developed a support programme for participants in the diamond-cutting cluster in the Smolensk Region and the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia). Under this programme, companies joining the cluster will have access to rough diamonds, along with preferential pricing, provided that all of the rough stones allocated to them are cut and polished within the cluster, thereby creating additional value domestically.

Gem-cutting today is a process that involves not only polishing machines but also rather complex computer software. We will be able to render the entire set of these services to truly help the participants in this cluster.

This also involves sufficiently large investment projects. Jointly with Inter RAO, we are implementing a project to build the Novolenskaya hydropower plant, where we participate as a natural gas supplier. For this to happen, we need to upgrade our deposits, the gas treatment facility, and the essential infrastructure.

We will finish the construction later this year and will get the papers for a new airport project in Mirny within the first six months of next year. This project is being implemented with unconditional state support: the state is building a new take-off and landing strip, and we are building a new airport.

We have converted a number of our fields to gas, thereby changing the fuel balance. Liquid fuel deliveries to a number of fields have been discontinued as of this year. This is an environmentally friendly and economically effective step. In September of this year, we will launch hydropower unit No. 4 at our hydropower plant.

Vladimir Putin: Do you mean the Svetlinskaya hydropower plant?

Pavel Marinychev: Yes, the Svetlinskaya hydropower plant. It is also a major project as far as we are concerned. We will increase the plant’s capacity by 104 MW in one go. If you have an opportunity, we would be honoured if you personally launch this hydropower unit at the Eastern Economic Forum, if your schedule permits, of course.

Vladimir Putin: Thank you.

Pavel Marinychev: Of course, we are a socially responsible corporation, as we have always been. We maintain our status as the best employer in Yakutia and the Russian Federation. We consistently top all industry ratings and fulfil our commitments in relations with the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia).

I should specifically report the following: last year, we confirmed our carbon neutrality at the international level by conducting research in cooperation with Moscow State University. The research showed that, under certain conditions, kimberlite can absorb carbon dioxide. Therefore, we currently absorb more than we emit. I will reiterate: this fact has been internationally confirmed.

Our absolute priority is import substitution. We have procured entirely new software, allocating new budgets for this.

Vladimir Putin: One hundred percent?

Pavel Marinychev: One hundred percent. The equipment powered by our local technology accounts for 98 percent. This is our absolute priority, and we will continue to work on it.

I also want to talk about generic marketing. As you know, we are, to a certain extent, affected by the synthetic stone market – synthetic diamonds. I would like to thank the Russian Government for issuing new trade rules in Russia that distinguish between synthetic and natural stones. From now on, synthetic stones cannot be weighed in carats or called diamonds.

Mr President, this is my brief report on the company’s performance.

Vladimir Putin: Good. Let’s take a look at the papers you have brought.

<…>

Closing ceremony of the Bolshaya Peremena contest finals

2026-08-05T21:12:42+04:00

Vladimir Putin addressed the closing ceremony of the Bolshaya Peremena national contest finals. Ahead of the event, the President met with the participants and finalists of the seventh season of the national contest.

Bolshaya Peremena is part of the Youth and Children national project and serves as the flagship initiative of the Movement of the First, a nationwide children’s and youth organisation. This year’s finals are being held at Siberian Federal University in Krasnoyarsk from July 29 to August 4. Over 800 schoolchildren are taking part, including students in years 5–7 from Russian regions, as well as high school students from other countries. The top prize is a Dream Journey – a train trip across Russia.

* * *

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Friends, good afternoon,

I am truly delighted to see you all here today. It is a genuine pleasure to meet those who have demonstrated the very best qualities in discovering their true selves and their calling – not only for their own future, but for the future of Russia. It is heartening to see young men, teenagers, and kids, each with their own creative gifts, each seeking a path in their life and looking forward with purpose.

I would like to note that over the years we have been running the Bolshaya Peremena contest, more than seven million people have taken part – just imagine that.

But it is not just about the number of people who are taking or have already taken part in this wonderful event. It’s about the results achieved by those who have gone through the Bolshaya Peremena testing. Many of them have become students of the country’s top universities and institutions of higher learning. Others have followed a creative path, launched their own websites and platforms, and are working in the arts – doing so with success.

In this connection, I wish to extend my gratitude to your mentors, instructors, teachers, and representatives of the business community. Let us thank them for their invaluable contributions and give them a round of applause. (Applause.)

I am absolutely confident that during these tests, you too have come to understand much about yourselves and have identified your best qualities. At the same time, you have probably also noted things you need to improve. All of this is of immense importance for your future.

It is wonderful that your meeting is taking place here, in Krasnoyarsk. I wish to draw your attention to the fact that this is the geographical centre of our vast country. Krasnoyarsk is located at the geographical centre of Russia; it is a major industrial, scientific, and educational centre of the Russian Federation. Becoming acquainted with its life, with the city, is both an exciting and enjoyable experience, I hope.

It is known – well known both to me and to you – that 300 finalists of the Bolshaya Peremena will travel across the country. This, in fact, will be a continuation of the contest as you will meet with inspiring people, take part in interesting seminars, and have a chance to see virtually the entire territory of our country – from Vladivostok all the way to its western borders. This is truly wonderful. I sincerely congratulate you on this achievement. (Applause.) I am confident that this will make an additional contribution to your development and afford you the opportunity to observe how our country is progressing, how it is moving forward. I am confident that this, too, will help you find your place in the progressive development of our wonderful Motherland.

My friends, I wish you every success. And I want to thank you for taking part in this contest.

Thank you!

Greetings on Railway Worker’s Day

2026-08-01T13:31:16+04:00

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Friends,

I warmly congratulate the current and former workers of Russia’s railway transport sector on this holiday – all those whose dedicated, conscientious work contributes to the growth of this industry, which holds such strategic importance for our country. We are proud of the achievements, accomplishments, and successes of the many generations who came before you.

This year marks the 175th anniversary of the first railway of national significance, which connected Moscow and St Petersburg. Its construction became a landmark event in the creation of Russia’s powerful and advanced transport network. That network enhanced the nation’s defence capabilities and economic advancement, facilitated the expansion and development of our vast territories, boosted business activity and social progress, and dramatically improved mobility for millions of people.

I would like to particularly highlight that the technical, engineering, and innovative solutions employed in constructing these new railway lines reflected virtually all of the most advanced ideas of their time. Since then, Russia’s railways have stood as a symbol of reliability and progress for our nation.

The heroism and courage demonstrated by railway workers during the country’s most difficult periods, when the entire nation united in defence of the Fatherland, will forever remain in the memory of our people. Today, Russian Railways employees continue to make an invaluable contribution by supporting the supply of troops participating in the special military operation. Often at considerable personal risk, they deliver essential supplies to residents of border regions and help restore transport connections in the liberated territories of Novorossiya and Donbass.

In recent years, thanks to the consistent, responsible efforts of a united and highly qualified team of professionals, Russia’s railway infrastructure has continued to develop steadily. Construction of the country’s first domestic high-speed railway line is advancing at full speed.

Russia’s railway workers continue to meet the challenges of the present day with distinction. They are actively introducing the latest technologies, including electronic logistics systems and the digitalisation of services, while improving the safety, speed, and accessibility of both freight and passenger transport.

Friends, I would like to thank you for your dedicated efforts, for your commitment to your profession, and for the outstanding results you achieve, each within your own area of responsibility.

I wish you good health and continued success in all your endeavours. All the very best to you.

Happy holiday, friends!

Meeting with Russian Railways CEO Oleg Belozerov

2026-08-11T20:13:06+04:00

CEO and Chairman of the Management Board of Russian Railways Oleg Belozerov briefed the President on the company’s performance during the first half of the year.

Oleg Belozerov: Mr President,

First of all, I would like to thank you for your continued attention to and support for railway workers. Your backing serves as a powerful source of motivation for the entire Russian Railways team as we work to achieve the country’s national goals and objectives.

Russian Railways’ key strategic priorities remain safety, reliability, and sustained development, ensuring steady, uninterrupted growth.

Vladimir Putin: Are your investment programmes now 45 percent complete?

Oleg Belozerov: Yes, and they are currently being implemented. Following the reallocation of certain funds, we have increased this year’s investment volume in order to deliver on the additional tasks you set, including work on the Eastern Operating Domain and the procurement of additional locomotives.

But first of all, I would like to emphasise that Russian Railways is the safest and most reliable railway system in the world. According to the International Union of Railways, our safety performance is three times better than the global average. In terms of the number of accidents per million train-kilometres, we are also twice as safe as the United States. These results are made possible by the dedication of our workforce – the largest in Russia. Today, the Russian Railways Group employs 851,000 people.

Vladimir Putin: But you have reduced your workforce, haven’t you?

Oleg Belozerov: Yes. That is part of a separate effort to improve labour productivity. We never reduce staff without first achieving the necessary technological improvements. Workforce reductions occur naturally, as employees retire. We value our people highly, and the overwhelming majority continue working with the company.

Vladimir Putin: And wages have increased by more than 8 percent, haven’t they?

Oleg Belozerov: Yes, Mr President. The average salary across Russian Railways has now reached nearly 119,000 rubles.

At the same time, the company is stable, not only economically but also financially. We can report a profit and also a very good Net Debt-to-EBITDA ratio of 3.3.

Vladimir Putin: Is it correct that your operating revenue amounts to 1.7 trillion rubles?

Oleg Belozerov: Yes, Mr President, it is our revenue for the first six months of the year, which is a substantial increase.

The beginning of this year was not very good for us because of the weather, as you know, because you are regularly updated. But we have seen strong growth since March, and our tariff freight turnover started growing year on year and against our plans. Very good results – a growth of 4.5 percent – were reported in June.

Vladimir Putin: A growth of what?

Oleg Belozerov: A growth in freight turnover.

Vladimir Putin: But the volume of freight has decreased.

Oleg Belozerov: Yes, Mr President, freight turnover has increased because the haul distance has increased and the destinations have changed. Besides, freight turnover does not include transit cargo, the volume of which is growing, but it is not included in freight turnover.

We can also report good figures for export shipments, which increased by over 3.4 percent from January to June.

Vladimir Putin: What has increased?

Oleg Belozerov: Export shipments.

In June, export shipments increased by over 4.4 percent, namely freight transportation via the North-South International Transport Corridor, and container transportation, which grew by over 13 percent in June [year on year]. We plan to report record figures for container transportation this year.

Meanwhile, friendly countries account for over 93 percent of transportation. Our mutual shipments with China are growing too. We report record figures every year, and growth has become consistent thanks to the agreements you have signed. The increment this year is 5.5 percent, which means that we will set a new record. Freight traffic is also increasing with Belarus (by 3 percent) and EAEU countries.

At the same time, the share of unfriendly countries is seriously decreasing. Shipments with Finland have slumped by nearly 25 percent and with Estonia by 42 percent. In other words, our interaction is limited.

Thank you very much for your decision regarding the Eastern Operating Domain. All of the original targets have been confirmed, including a freight capacity of 180 million tonnes, which will be fully achieved this year. We are also seeing growth in exports of non-coal cargo. It is not just coal – our overall cargo base is expanding. In line with your executive order, shipments of grain, fertilisers and containerised cargo are increasing. These are precisely the high-value cargoes transported along this route. At the same time, we are fully implementing your instructions under the agreement on coal shipments from the Kemerovo Region.

Vladimir Putin: Do not forget the miners. I understand that the company needs to generate profits and transport the cargoes that bring in the highest returns. That is perfectly understandable.

Oleg Belozerov: Mr President, we are implementing those instructions without fail.

You declared the current year the Year of Unity of the Peoples of Russia. For our part, we proposed an initiative that reflects what defines our country best – passenger rail transport. Accordingly, we have designated 2026 within Russian Railways as the Year of the Passenger to further promote domestic passenger services. During the first six months of this year alone, we carried 625 million passengers, an increase compared to the same period last year. As a reminder, last year was an all-time record, with 1.311 billion passengers transported.

Vladimir Putin: Does that figure include both suburban and long-distance services?

Oleg Belozerov: Yes.

Vladimir Putin: And if you break it down?

Oleg Belozerov: Long-distance services have seen a slight decline, while suburban services have posted solid growth. The increase in suburban traffic reflects investment in transport hubs. In accordance with your instructions, virtually all suburban routes have been preserved. We work closely with the regions, and these services remain in high demand.

We continue to make support for participants in the special military operation a priority. We have launched the No One Left Behind project in cooperation with the Defenders of the Fatherland Foundation. We currently operate 36 tours across 10 routes, enabling nearly 7,000 participants in the special military operation and their families to take advantage of our travel programmes. Our railway company’s medical service is also performing very well: more than 21,000 participants in the special military operation, including our own employees, have received medical care through our healthcare system.

Vladimir Putin: Thank you. Please continue this work.

Oleg Belozerov: We certainly will, Mr President. We are continuing to expand this cooperation.

You have noted that the workforce at Russian Railways appears to be in decline, but we are offsetting this through gains in labour productivity.

Vladimir Putin: Through the introduction of new technology.

Oleg Belozerov: Indeed, from a systemic standpoint, over the past 15 years, labour productivity has doubled in technological terms – based on technical performance metrics – and has quadrupled in economic terms, specifically in terms of ruble-denominated output per unit of production and transport activity. Accordingly, we regard ourselves as a leader in this respect, and we are actively engaging with the Government on this front.

Vladimir Putin: That’s right. That’s right, you are one of the leaders, and you are succeeding.

Oleg Belozerov: Thank you very much.

On the technology side, I would emphasise that we are the most capital-intensive enterprise in the country. This is particularly true of our infrastructure: the more efficiently it is utilised, the stronger our operational performance. To that end, we need to run trains at higher speeds and with shorter headways. We are reducing the interval between trains from 12–15 minutes to 3–4 minutes, and we are currently trialling this in passenger operations.

At the same time, we have already reduced freight headways to 7 minutes on the Eastern Operating Domain, and we are now aiming to set new benchmarks in passenger traffic. These improvements should deliver traffic growth of several tens of percent and a corresponding rise in efficiency. We are making steady progress: on the Moscow – Adler route, which was tested last year without passengers, we successfully achieved a 4‑minute interval, and we will be rolling this out gradually.

Vladimir Putin: Good.

Oleg Belozerov: Mr President, turning to your instruction on the development of quantum communications: this is proceeding according to plan, in line with the agreed roadmap. To date, we have laid 7,800 kilometres [of quantum trunk network], connecting 27 regions and 13 cities with populations of over one million.

We have completed the technical groundwork, obtained the necessary certification, and are now moving into the service provision phase. We are monetising this offering directly. The service is primarily focused on securing the backbone channels and communications networks of our holding company’s structures, and we are already working with any organisation that requires enhanced information security.

Thank you for entrusting us with this exciting initiative. Mr President, I would like to assure you that we will deliver on all the objectives that you will set.

Vladimir Putin: Work on quantum technologies is, of course, very important, and I hope it will also be profitable.

Oleg Belozerov: My colleagues and I also recognise that, given the current environment, in which cybersecurity is reaching an entirely new level – we laid a strong strategic foundation some time ago that will now enable us to safeguard our networks effectively. We hold a substantial volume of data and are already putting the system to use, with very encouraging results.

Vladimir Putin: Good. Thank you.

<…>

Address to participants and guests of 3rd Games of the Future International Multisport Tournament

2026-07-29T14:59:15+04:00

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Mr President,

Tournament participants, guests, and heads of delegations,

Ladies and gentlemen, friends,

Welcome to the opening ceremony of the 3rd Games of the Future International Multisport Tournament.

This unique sport event fuses sport and innovation, physical and intellectual achievement. Their primary mission is to foster the well-rounded development of people who embrace the future, are open to innovation, and confidently harness cutting-edge technologies – those who value knowledge and are committed to continuous self-improvement.

I am confident that, over time, the number of disciplines included in the Games programme – and in phygital sports as a whole – will continue to grow, along with their popularity.

Russia is one of the world’s leading sporting nations, the birthplace of great athletes, records, and victories. We are proud that our country stood at the forefront of the phygital movement and, of course, are creating every possible condition for the further development of this sport.

As you know, the All-Russian Federation of Phygital Sports was established back in November 2022. Then, in February and March 2024, we hosted the inaugural Games of the Future, which attracted tremendous interest from both athletes and spectators around the world.

I would like to emphasise that from the very outset these Games have remained free from political confrontation, discrimination in any form, and double standards.

It is also important that the geography of the Games continues to expand. This year, the baton has passed from last year’s host, Abu Dhabi, to Astana – a vibrant, modern, and dynamically developing city.

I would like to pay special tribute to President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s significant contribution to the development of the phygital movement and the Games of the Future. It is thanks to his personal commitment and active support that the third edition of the Games is taking place in Astana.

Kazakhstan boasts tremendous sporting potential, and its athletes have rightfully earned numerous honours at prestigious international competitions. We are very familiar with the traditions of generosity and hospitality that our Kazakh friends are known for. I am therefore confident that the Games will be organised to the highest standards and will delight both competitors and spectators with thrilling, hard-fought contests.

I wish all the participants every success and all the guests an unforgettable experience.

Godspeed!

Meeting with Olga Abramova

2026-07-29T14:04:52+04:00

The President met with Olga Abramova in the Kremlin and offered her the post of acting head of the Udmurt Republic.

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Ms Abramova, you were born in Udmurtia, have worked there practically your entire life, correct?

Olga Abramova: Yes, I grew up and built my career there.

Vladimir Putin: You have risen to the position of de facto head of [regional] government.

Olga Abramova: Yes.

Vladimir Putin: How would you assess the current situation in the region?

Olga Abramova: I believe Udmurtia has laid a very solid foundation for development. Active projects are currently underway in road construction, housing and utilities, and the social sector. Therefore, I believe the region’s development outlook is very promising indeed.

Furthermore, the economy continues to grow. The focus on small and medium-sized businesses nine years ago was the right decision, as this category has shown the greatest growth. At the same time, industry (Udmurtia is an industrial region) is also showing significant growth, so we have a balanced picture here. But, of course, there is always room for improvement.

Vladimir Putin: The current leader has done a great deal in recent years to develop the regional economy. The defence industry plays a large role too, as we know well.

Do you feel ready to take the next steps building on the foundation that has already been created?

Olga Abramova: Yes, for me this is certainly a great challenge, a serious one, and a huge responsibility. In that sense, I am grateful that you see such potential in me. That means a great deal to me.

And, of course, the team that has already been formed in Udmurtia, and what has been accomplished, will undoubtedly allow us to move forward smoothly.

Vladimir Putin: You were a local council member, and you have worked in joint-stock companies and in various government agencies. You have solid experience, you know the situation and you know the people. This is your small motherland. I wish you every success.

Olga Abramova: Thank you very much, Mr President.

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Meeting with Federation Council Speaker Valentina Matviyenko

2026-07-28T20:02:36+04:00

The Speaker of the upper house of parliament reported on the Federation Council performance during the spring session. The priorities included demography, support for the current and former personnel involved in the special military operation as well as their families, and modernisation of children’s leisure and health infrastructure.

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Good afternoon, Ms Matviyenko.

I can see from the documents that you have approved over 300 federal laws during this session.

Federation Council Speaker Valentina Matviyenko: Yes, Mr President, over seven months. The session was rather intense and dynamic but we worked as usual and fulfilled all the plans concerning the national development goals you had approved, as well as other instructions of yours, including those issues at St Petersburg International Economic Forum.

It is important to note that, out of over 300 laws, more than one-third are social laws focused on social support. As prescribed, the senators drafted and submitted another 130 bills. Mr President, all these bills are responses to requests from regional officials and the public. Some of them have already passed.

Looking purely at statistics, the senators are currently among the three leading categories for the number of legislative initiatives submitted. This shows significant recent growth.

A crucial topic I wanted to report to you about, Mr President, is demography, which has been our priority. You labelled it as a strategic priority for everybody, which is true. I want to confirm, objectively and based on facts, that the measures adopted at your instruction are already bringing results. There are reasons to believe – and I always speak honestly – that the attitude to family, children and family values in society is certainly changing for the better.

Last year, the birth rate increased in 18 regions, and the number of large families is growing as well. Over the past year, which is especially pleasing, the number of student families has doubled, and half of them already have children. This is a result of the support measures proposed by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education and measures according to which higher schools have created conditions for student families with children.

You know, universities have entered a kind of competition for the greatest number of families with children. We have held the 2nd National Festival of Student Families at Moscow State University with support from MSU Rector Viktor Sadovnichy. Words cannot describe this atmosphere; you have to feel it for yourself. As you have said, these festivals have set a trend for families and children.

In addition, last year, the number of social orphans has decreased by 17 percent. Speaking about the atmosphere, which has improved, the number of children whose parents have either been deprived of or restricted in their parental rights has decreased by 25 percent. The number of children in orphanages has decreased, too.

It is also encouraging that the number of abortions has been falling consistently in the past two years. It has decreased by nearly 12 percent over the last two years. The best result has been reported in the Vologda Region, where the number of abortions has fallen by 45 percent. This is also the result of measures taken by the regional authorities. So much for the facts.

I will not dwell on this any longer. I regularly report the demographic situation to you. I know that it has your personal attention. In late May, we held a meting of the Presidential Council on Demography. You know, we had a very interesting and creative discussion, and many new proposals have been advanced. The Council members took an active part in its work. We have prepared and forwarded to you a set of proposals based on the results of that meeting. We are waiting for your instructions following that meeting.

Mr President, do you know what we are really pleased about? It is that everyone has joined in our demographic efforts. Everyone, including the regions, the regional and municipal authorities, ministries and government agencies have prepared sectoral programmes.

Our businesses have also joined in, surprisingly actively. We unofficially call it “the demographic millionaire club.” About 200 enterprises have adopted a “golden corporate standard,” paying out 1 million rubles to their employees for the birth of every child. These corporate standards also include kindergartens, lots of other benefits, and flexible working hours for women. Moreover, they are not being pushed, they are doing it of their own accord because they are aware of the importance of this policy, including for the future of their enterprises. Public institutions, the People’s Front and NGOs have also joined in this drive. I believe that we must keep up this topic in the spotlight so that everyone becomes aware of its importance.

Obviously, support for the current participants and veterans of the special military operation as well as their families is among our traditional priorities.

Mr President, I would like to thank you for the Executive Order to ensure equal support for participants in the special military operation and their families in all Russian regions. It was an awaited decision. Over this session alone, we approved some 50 bills that serve the goals of the special military operation. Since 2022, we have considered and passed over 400 bills, including over 160 bills on social support measures for our heroes. They concern assistance with education, employment, and so on.

You know, it may seem that after so many laws passed, one could stop. They may now be more specific but it doesn’t make them less significant because even small unaccounted issues – usually raised by special military operation participants with whom we maintain continuous dialogue – are worth clarifying and adjusting so that every hero in every place is guaranteed their social rights.

Another topic that you supported at the time is the modernisation of children’s recreation and health infrastructure which the Federation Council has been handling substantively. Over the four years since the launch of this programme, with the small support funding allocated to the regions from the federal budget, 336 new accommodation facilities have been built in 70 regions. Furthermore, major renovation of the infrastructure has been conducted, including catering facilities, medical stations and other amenities, which provides annual health improvement opportunities to over 200,000 children. Primarily this applies to the children of special military operation veterans, as well as the children of doctors, teachers, and children from large families. We will continue. In view of your instruction, the Government responded with two billion per year while the rest is provided by the regions. Most importantly, we are restoring the base that was lost earlier.

During the session, we held several traditional days of the Russian regions. We launched open dialogues with ministers. It is a practice when senators meet for an open and engaged dialogue during government hours.

The Council for the Integration of Reunified Regions, established under the Federation Council, has been operating actively. Federal laws are all well and good, but you have set the goal of bringing infrastructure and services in all reunified regions up to national standards by 2030. In practice, however, gaps emerge – some things are overlooked in legislation, others in regulatory acts, and some issues simply arise in the course of implementation. To address this, we are holding Council meetings with the leaders of Donbass and Novorossiya to discuss what needs to be put into practice on the ground. Given the cross-departmental nature of this work, Government members are also involved. The governors of all the newly reunified regions have found the Council extremely useful. In some cases, legislation needs to be refined; in others, deadlines need to be extended. The Council is developing practical approaches to these challenges, and we are putting them into effect.

As you are aware, the Federation Council is not only a legislative body but also a representative one, and we have been introducing new formats and expanding our work across a range of areas. For example, we recently held a broad dialogue with cultural figures, artists, and regional theatre directors. They raised a number of pressing issues, all of which we are addressing. We do not simply hold meetings for the sake of it – we follow through and bring matters to a conclusion.

One thing that did not surprise me, but rather confirmed my expectations, was the overwhelmingly positive and patriotic spirit we encountered. This is reflected across all our work. We even came across a situation where theatre companies approached us wanting to take concerts and performances to our special military operation personnel, but they did not know who to contact or how to arrange it. We worked with the Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of Defence to establish a “one-stop-shop,” so as not to hold back this grassroots impulse, but rather create the conditions for them to go.

The Forum of Regions of Russia and Belarus in Minsk was a great success and highly productive, with a significant number of agreements signed. I would like to thank you and President Lukashenko for your warm greetings. Our regions have become close partners in the broadest sense of the word. We have numerous joint projects and shared products, as you know well.

The forum also provided the setting for the Train of Memory event, now in its fifth year. High school students from across the CIS – including Ukraine, Moldova, and all the former Soviet republics, and this year also from the Allied Powers – spent 15 days travelling through Russia and Belarus, visiting sites of military and labour glory.

I can tell you, they return as changed individuals – almost as though they have been inoculated against any form of neo-Nazism. And, most importantly, they come back with a true sense of historical truth. You can read a book or watch a film, but when you see it all with your own eyes, that emotional impact is everything. It is a highly successful project. Thanks are due to Oleg Belozerov and Russian Railways for their active support – for them, too, as they say, it is a project close to the heart.

In the Year of National Unity, we have already convened the Second Forum of Women of the North. Mr President, I assure you, it is women who constitute the backbone in this endeavour – so active, so creative, so enterprising. All indigenous small-numbered peoples were represented. You issued an Executive Order establishing a new holiday – the Day of Indigenous Small-Numbered Peoples – which we celebrated for the first time this year. Following the First Forum, upon the initiative of the Federation Council, we adopted a comprehensive series of laws of great significance for the indigenous small-numbered peoples.

For instance, the professional standard ‘Livestock Breeder’ now encompasses a new profession – ‘Worker of Nomadic Housing’. This decision has conferred official recognition upon the arduous labour of nomadic women and has ensured that they are accorded pension rights on an equal footing with other workers of the Far North. This law was received with great approval by our citizens who lead a nomadic lifestyle. Another long-awaited legislative act – which they themselves raised – is the adoption of the Law on Nomadic Education, among several other measures. It is also heartening to note that several women delivered addresses at the Forum, and a discernible trend has emerged of professionals, doctors, and teachers relocating to the regions of the Far East, to the ‘North’. This trend, without doubt, warrants our active support.

Let me now turn to one of the key instructions you issued – the support for and preservation of folk arts and crafts. As you are well aware, this is the very code of our culture, our traditions, and so forth. The Federation Council, as the chamber of regions, has assumed stewardship of this matter. I wish to express my gratitude to the Ministry of Industry and Trade and, in particular, to Minister Anton Alikhanov for his robust personal support. Above all, comprehensive measures – not merely ad hoc steps – have been devised and implemented to support folk arts and crafts.

Furthermore, by your Executive Order, the Day of Folk Arts and Crafts has been established. This year, on our joint initiative, the Government instituted a national award for masters and enterprises of folk arts and crafts. This year, we presented this award for the first time. For artists and craftsmen, it was indeed a significant event. This represents both legal regulation and financial support. Each year, the Government increases this financial support – this year, it amounts to over 1 billion rubles, which is a meaningful contribution for the masters. There has also been a positive response: as a result of last year, the sector recorded a nine percent growth. Of course, this is by no means the limit. I am confident that these results will continue to grow with each successive year.

We have now reached an agreement with the Government to launch a personnel development programme for the folk arts and crafts sector, with the goal of attracting as many young people as possible, enabling master craftspeople to pass on their skills to the next generation, and ensuring that our traditional crafts not only survive but continue to flourish. Businesses have also stepped in, making investments in recognition of the importance and potential of this sector.

Mr President, as the chamber representing the regions, we continue, jointly with the Ministry of Finance and in close coordination with governors and heads of regional legislatures, to monitor the state of regional budgets.

I would like to thank you for the decision you made to postpone the repayment of budget loans until 2030. It provided the regions with timely and much-needed support. The situation remains under the Ministry of Finance’s control. It is challenging, but there is no cause for alarm, and work is proceeding in a normal, business-like manner.

Our international cooperation has been developing very actively – in fact, it has intensified. This year alone, we have held 77 meetings with our parliamentary counterparts from abroad in various formats. And these contacts extend well beyond the CIS countries, although it is important to note that the CIS Interparliamentary Assembly continues to work very effectively.

Our Interparliamentary Commission with China was highly successful, and the Chairman of the National People’s Congress came to Russia.

We have also maintained active contacts with South Africa, Indonesia, Mozambique, and many other countries. Most recently, the Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces of South Africa visited us, and that meeting also proved very productive.

Overall, Mr President, I would like to express my sincere gratitude for the attention you devote to the work of the Federation Council – the chamber of the regions – and to the regions as a whole, as well as for the support you consistently provide for the constructive initiatives we try to put forward.

Thank you very much.

Vladimir Putin: Ms Matviyenko, I would like to thank you, all the senators, and the Federation Council as a whole for your active work. The significance of your contribution lies not just in the fact that you approved more than 300 bills, including two constitutional laws, but also in the active role senators play in the legislative process. As you have just noted, they put forward legislative initiatives and draw attention to the fundamental issues that lie at the heart of the country’s life and the key challenges it faces.

Of course, demographics and support for our service personnel on the battlefield, and for their families, are of paramount importance. This is a crucial task for all branches of government. I keep speaking about it, and I expect the Federation Council to play its full part as the upper house representing the interests of the regions while many of our units are formed directly in the military districts, that is, from across the Russian Federation, as well as all government authorities must support our soldiers and their families, and I know they are doing a great deal. Nevertheless, this remains a vast undertaking involving a huge number of people. We must do everything in our power to ensure, first and foremost, that our soldiers have everything they need and that their families feel full support of the state. Just like with any large-scale effort, issues can arise, and people may sometimes encounter instances of perceived injustice. We must respond without delay, working closely with the Defenders of the Fatherland Foundation, and pay attention to every detail – being aware that there cannot be small matters in this area.

Turning to the other topics you have raised – they are, of course, utterly important. This includes support for industry, for specific production sectors, and the social issues you mentioned – I will not repeat them – and, naturally, the international dimension. Russia has never isolated itself from anyone and has no intention of doing so. Our engagement with friendly countries and their relevant government bodies remains extremely important.

Finally, on September 20, elections will be held for a number of regional government bodies across the Russian Federation. This will, in turn, have implications for the composition of the Federation Council, which includes representatives from both regional legislatures and executive bodies. I believe this is a very significant process, as our Federation Council is being renewed. I expect that experienced individuals will join the Council, all focused on a shared goal – the development of Russia, providing assistance to our citizens where it is most needed, and achieving our national development objectives.

Thank you very much for this work.

Valentina Matviyenko: Mr President, if I may add a word on the electoral process itself – our political system is structured in such a way that 20 to 30 percent of senators are replaced on the nationwide voting day, and that is a very positive development. It brings in fresh blood, new people with new perspectives, directly from the regions. We are monitoring this process very carefully to ensure that the regional representatives are worthy of the trust placed in them.

Vladimir Putin: I hope so. I am confident of that.

Valentina Matviyenko: Thank you.

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