Putin visits Kazakhstan amid public protests and tensions
Politicians from certain countries do not adhere to the principle of isolating Vladimir Putin, inviting the Russian leader to visit them. However, he is not always warmly welcomed by the public. Evidence of this was seen in Kazakhstan, where the dictator encountered a Ukrainian flag projected onto the opera building.
Vladimir Putin made his second visit to Kazakhstan this year, focusing on strengthening the relationship between Russia and Kazakhstan. As reported by Belsat, Putin emphasized the importance of the two nations' shared initiatives, including collaborations in nuclear energy, which he views as a means to bolster technological independence.
Fears may drive Putin's invitation. Media in Kazakhstan suggest that the government in Astana is afraid of potential American attacks on Russian bases on Kazakh territory. Furthermore, the authorities in Astana want to showcase that a "Ukrainian scenario" is not possible in their country.
Alerted by the escalation, Astana will host Putin on November 27 with particular grandeur, as he is on a state visit, the highest level, which traditionally includes a protocol ceremony. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev will await him at the aircraft ramp; a guard of honour should be formed in the guest's honour, according to journalists from the independent portal Azattyk.
This is how Putin was welcomed in Kazakhstan
In honour of Vladimir Putin, Russian flags were displayed in various parts of Astana. Belsat reports that a banner with "Your Excellency, Mr Vladimir Putin, welcome." also appeared.
Not everyone is as pleased about the visit of the Russian leader. The Astana Opera authorities acted differently. The Ukrainian flag was projected onto the building. The incident did not go unnoticed by Russian propaganda.
Blogger and former Ukrainian Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs Anton Herashchenko reports, "Russian media said it was a hacker attack."
