Yesterday, Vladimir Putin held his annual 'Direct Line' event, fielding questions from Russian citizens. The overall reaction was negative, with many Russians describing the event as empty and disconnected from reality.
This year’s 'Direct Line' included several awkward moments, such as a Russian serviceman forgetting his propagandist script on air. Putin himself largely ignored critical social issues, further displaying his distance from ordinary people’s needs.
Key topics included Russia’s ongoing demographic crisis—Putin bizarrely praised early marriages in the Caucasus as a solution—and economic troubles. Despite official assertions of stability, in reality, Russia’s budget has shifted from a surplus in 2021 to a projected deficit in 2026. Tax increases such as VAT hikes are justified as necessary budget measures.
The war against Ukraine dominated much of the program. Putin reiterated readiness to end the war, but only on terms amounting to Ukraine’s capitulation. While Russian forces continue offensives, Ukrainian military responses have included strikes on Russian tankers in the Mediterranean and operations in the Caspian region.
The Russian public can no longer ignore rampant economic issues, rising prices, and social difficulties. Nonetheless, Putin hopes to outlast Ukraine in the conflict, betting on Ukraine’s internal weaknesses.
In conclusion, peace is not currently on the Kremlin’s agenda. Russia’s strategic goal remains the destruction of Ukrainian statehood and attempts to reclaim territories, including former Soviet countries. Meanwhile, Ukraine continues to call for support for its army and for urgent domestic reforms.
