How Putin sees the world

Every year before Christmas, Russian President Putin holds a question and answer session. Syria, the war against Ukraine or the low birth rate – that's what this year was about. And: about a deceased former chancellor.

At the beginning of the question and answer session, Vladimir Putin first made it clear how he sees the world situation – and only then did he answer questions from journalists and citizens. Things are going well in Russia – according to the Russian President's analysis: “Overall, the situation in Russia is normal and stable,” he explains. Russia continues to develop “no matter what happens, despite all external threats and attempts to influence us.” The Russian economy will grow by 3.9 percent this year, perhaps even four percent.

Western Europe and especially Germany are completely different, says Putin. There is no growth at all. And then it was about the so-called special military operation, i.e. the war against Ukraine. Putin was confident of victory. Progress is being made on all fronts and all the goals set from the start are being achieved.

Compassion for people in Kursk – and a promise

In particular, Putin addressed the situation in the Kursk region of Russia. Ukrainian troops have occupied several hundred square kilometers there for months. Here too, Putin announced successes. “I don't want to give a specific date when the Ukrainians will be repulsed,” he said. But: “Our boys are fighting. These are serious fights.”

He understands that what is happening to the people there is nothing good. “People are suffering grief, loss and inconvenience. We will definitely do whatever is necessary. There is no doubt about that,” Putin assured. Everything will be rebuilt.

Reconstruction in occupied Ukrainian regions

Putin also promised a major reconstruction program for the Ukrainian regions that Russia considers annexed. So for the regions of Crimea, Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhia and Kherson in the southeast of Ukraine. He promised major investments in the next few years. “We have a major program for the reconstruction and development of these areas, which runs until 2030,” Putin reported.

The work is already underway “in many areas”. It's about transport infrastructure, housing, the health system and culture. The aim is to bring the entire road network in the occupied regions “up to Russian standards” within three years.

Negotiations with new Syrian rulers

Putin was also asked about future relations between Russia and Syria. Russia is interested in keeping its two military bases there, said the head of state. What's important now is the negotiations with the new rulers. Russian interests must be taken into account. He did not respond to media reports that Russia was withdrawing its military from Syria.

International politics took up a lot of time during Putin's consultation hours. In addition to Ukraine and Syria, Putin also spoke about Russia's role in the BRICS group of states and the good relations with China.

Putin calls for more Russian children

Domestic political and social issues were only addressed later. And this despite the fact that the official analysis of the questions received showed that people are primarily interested in social issues, housing and health. Among other things, it was about an issue that has been bothering Putin for a long time: the low birth rate. He pointed out that there are already many measures to encourage people to have more children, especially financial incentives. The birth rate in Russia is 1.4 children per woman. To avoid extinction, more children are needed, Putin summarizes.

Towards the end there was a quick question and answer session – where Putin also talked about Germany again. He was asked which deceased person he would like to have a cup of tea with. For example, with former Chancellor Helmut Kohl, said Putin. He was a great person and great politician. Even after becoming chancellor, he often came to visit and we had very interesting conversations.