Russians Await Answers from Putin amid War and Domestic Struggles
For the first time since the onset of the conflict in Ukraine, President Vladimir Putin will engage with journalists in a question-and-answer session, combining it with the annual television show "The Direct Line" for this year's "Results of the Year" program. The highly anticipated event is scheduled to begin around noon Moscow time on December 22, 2022.
State media reports that over 1.5 million questions have been submitted for Putin to address. As Putin aims to gain support for his five-term presidency, which is set to occur on March 17, 2023, anticipation for the event is not solely driven by the war in Ukraine. Instead, many Russians yearn for answers and solutions to pressing issues facing their country, such as poverty, social hardship, and infrastructure concerns.
Citizens' Top Concerns
Sociologists from the independent Russian opinion research institute Levada revealed that most Russians express a desire to know when they can expect an end to the war in Ukraine. Additionally, questions regarding pension increases and wage stagnation remain top concerns. According to data gathered by Levada, in December 2022, senior citizens voiced their hopes for leading "a normal life" while average salaries in Russia remain a meager few hundred euros for full-time workers.
International Observers and Enmity
Observers were convinced that Putin avoided international journalists' questions during his press conference cancellation in December 2022. With Russian aggression against Ukraine continuing since February 24, 2022, those defeats on the battlefield seem to have fueled Putin's growing confidence. In recent months, the Russian president has consistently responded only to loyalty-ensuring journalists during apparent media interactions.
Invitation Exclusivity
Unlike previous press conferences, Putin's invitation this time is restricted to hand-picked journalists, defying traditional accreditation procedures. The streets near the Kremlin have been closed off in preparation for the high-security event.
[1] "Putin: Trump could have prevented Ukraine conflict," reuters.com [2] "Levada: Russia is becoming a country to be feared," rferl.org [3] "Kremlin sets its sights on securing Putin's presidential ambitions," theguardian.com [4] "Putin offers limited talks with US, asks for recognition of Russia's claims on Ukraine," politico.eu
