Geurasia

Putin hails national unity in State of the Nation address

Photo: AFP/Alexander Nemenov

Eurasia 29/02/2024 18:13

President Vladimir Putin delivered his annual State of the Nation address on Thursday to Russia's elite and both houses of the Russian legislature, updating them on the war in Ukraine, Moscow's nuclear capabilities, the Russian economy and relations with the West.

The speech comes two weeks ahead of a presidential election in which Putin is expected to win another six-year term in a landslide.

Amid ongoing tensions, particularly concerning Russia's actions in Donbas and Novorossiya (regions in eastern Ukraine, which Russia claims to have annexed), Putin emphasized the importance of unity and sovereignty:

"Today, when our homeland is defending its sovereignty and security... the decisive role in this righteous struggle belongs to our citizens, our unity, devotion to our native country and responsibility for its fate…"

Regarding the war in Ukraine, Putin reiterated Russia's stance, stating, "We did not start this war in Donbas... We will do everything to end it, to eradicate Nazism." He highlighted the increased combat capabilities of the Russian armed forces and their progress in Ukraine.

Putin expressed readiness for dialogue with the United States on issues of strategic stability, while criticizing what he perceived as unsubstantiated accusations – regarding a potential Russian invasion of Europe – and attempts to draw Russia into negotiations on unfavorable terms.

AFP/Alexander Nemenov

The Russian president also emphasized Russia's military advancements, including the deployment and effectiveness of hypersonic weapons systems. He accused the West of attempting to provoke an arms race and stressed the importance of developing Russia's defense-industrial complex.

Putin defended Russia's political system, asserting that interference in internal affairs would not be tolerated. He criticized Western behavior, characterizing it as colonial and aimed at impeding Russian development.

Despite geopolitical tensions, Putin highlighted, Russia's economic growth, positioning it as the largest economy in Europe by GDP in terms of purchasing power parity and the fifth largest in the world. He acknowledged, however, persistent issues such as poverty, particularly among large families, and announced plans to address these through initiatives like the "Family" national project.

In a bid to support regions with low birth rates, Putin proposed allocating additional funds, aiming to bolster demographic growth and improve the quality of life for families.

Putin's address underscored Russia's assertion of sovereignty, military strength, and economic resilience amidst ongoing geopolitical challenges.

#Vladimir Putin #Russia

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Putin hails national unity in State of the Nation address

President Vladimir Putin delivered his annual State of the Nation address on Thursday to Russia's elite and both houses of the Russian legislature, updating them on the war in Ukraine, Moscow's nuclear capabilities, the Russian economy and relations with the West.

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