Vladimir Putin’s annual news conference, carefully choreographed to promote his image and control the narrative, is a clear display of propaganda. The event, titled “Results of the Year with Vladimir Putin,” is broadcasted live on all major Russian TV channels, showcasing a world where Putin is always right and in control. This year, the event serves the purpose of boosting Putin’s popularity ahead of the upcoming presidential election in March.
The news conference combines a TV phone-in with questions from the public and selected media. However, the questions are carefully screened, and critical views are kept away from reaching Putin’s ears. While there are some critical messages shown on the giant screen displaying viewer text messages, they are not addressed or given much prominence during the broadcast. This tactic gives the illusion of diversity in opinions without truly acknowledging opposing views.
One of the main highlights of the news conference is Putin’s confident stance on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. He portrays the situation as Russia’s armed forces improving their position along the whole line of contact, downplaying the losses suffered by the Russian army and Ukraine’s counter-offensive. This narrative is strategically timed to coincide with growing war fatigue in Europe and the United States.
The event also serves as a platform to present Putin as Russia’s “Mr Fix-it” and someone who can influence the day-to-day lives of ordinary citizens. A video message from a Russian pensioner complaining about the rising price of eggs exemplifies this. It is another tactic to boost Putin’s popularity, as the upcoming presidential election looms.
While the news conference is a carefully constructed show of Putin’s power and control, it also reveals the need for the Kremlin to acknowledge the existence of differing views. The critical text messages shown on the screen are an attempt to hint at dissent, albeit without giving it much importance or allowing it to challenge Putin’s narrative.
It is crucial to approach this news conference with skepticism and recognize it for what it truly is – a propaganda tool to shape public opinion and maintain Putin’s stronghold on power. The carefully choreographed nature of the event and the absence of critical questions from independent journalists undermine its credibility as a genuine exchange of ideas and accountability.
As spectators of this news conference, we must remain vigilant to the manipulation at play. By questioning the motives behind Putin’s carefully crafted image and critically analyzing the information presented, we can strive for a more nuanced understanding of the political landscape in Russia and its impact on global affairs.
