Putin's press event to spotlight soldier support, avoid tough queries
The Kremlin is determined to prevent any disruptions during Vladimir Putin's annual "big conference." The leader "will not face any uncomfortable questions," and assurances and promises will be extended from the stage to soldiers and their families.
Putin's annual press conferences and direct lines are media events designed to showcase his policies, address questions from citizens and journalists, and bolster his image domestically and internationally. His speech can last up to five hours and is always held in December.
Putin only avoided speaking "with the nation" twice—in 2020 due to the pandemic, and in 2023—which experts attribute to Russia's challenges on the front lines in Ukraine.
"No uncomfortable questions"
During the direct line planned for December, Putin is anticipated to announce new support measures for soldiers and their families, as reported by sources from "Vierski."
According to a Kremlin insider, the presidential administration and government are currently finalizing these measures. They likely include new benefits for families with multiple children and enhancements to the child support payment system. Additionally, soldiers may receive "new professional guarantees."
Connections with soldiers and their families
A source involved in organizing the direct line confirmed that special attention will be paid to questions from soldiers. According to the insider, "there will definitely be several instances" addressing various issues raised by the military.
This information was also confirmed by a high-ranking parliamentarian: He mentioned that the "inclusion" of soldiers and their families during the press conference is planned multiple times.
- It is expected that they will ask questions regarding payments and relief, as well as express gratitude to Putin for the assistance already provided - claims the source.
The insider notes that while previous direct lines and press conferences sometimes featured uncomfortable questions or unexpected statements, this time they are "eliminated."
- Technically speaking: strict moderation of texts on the screen and questions from journalists. This time, questions will be "filtered" to ensure there are no disloyal ones - adds the insider.
Putin's orchestrated performance
Strict moderation of questions before the direct line was also confirmed by one of the journalists in the Kremlin pool. This term refers to the group of journalists who regularly cover events related to the activities of the Russian president.
According to the source, now "many topics are banned."
- It is known that there will be no discussion of issues related to drones, fertility policy, the declining exchange rate of the ruble, or specifics about negotiations with Ukraine - the source emphasized.
