Putin's Annual Speech Begins Amid Unprecedented Decline in His Popularity

On March 1, the President of Russia began his annual speech, initially focusing on economic issues and investment in Russia. This speech comes at a time when polls indicate that his popularity among the public has reached its lowest level in the past 13 years. The annual address, titled 'State of the Nation,' takes place in the Federation Council of Russia, which includes both the lower and upper houses. Vladimir Putin has held power since 1999, both as President and Prime Minister. At 66 years old, he was re-elected to the presidency in 2018, with the presidential term lasting six years. Critics argue that Putin has almost exclusively consolidated power through pressure, repression, or sidelining political opponents. This Wednesday's speech marks the fifteenth 'State of the Nation' address by Putin, attended by Russian lawmakers, judges, government officials, senior regional and federal unit officials, and other politicians. However, this year's address occurs amidst unprecedented polling data showing a significant drop in the President's popularity, reaching its lowest point in 13 years. Results from the 'Public Opinion Research Center' published on January 17 show that public trust in Putin has decreased to 33.4%, the lowest since 2006. Last year, the independent polling center Levada estimated Putin's popularity at around 39%. In 2017, this figure was 59%. Concurrently, research from a Kremlin-affiliated institute indicates that over one-fifth of citizens live in poverty; it appears that rising poverty and economic issues are contributing to Putin's declining popularity. Last year, Russia witnessed various protests and demonstrations. Thousands of citizens repeatedly gathered in different cities to protest government reforms related to labor rights and pension plans, with hundreds arrested during protests against the presidential election and in support of a boycott. Russia faces international sanctions due to the annexation of Crimea from Ukraine and accusations of supporting separatist militants in eastern Ukraine. The tensions and conflicts in Ukraine have resulted in over 10,000 deaths since 2014. In his speech last year, Putin focused on military changes and advancements in his country. During his speech on February 28, 2018, he spoke about the development of 'unstoppable' nuclear weapons. Russian government officials have stated that foreign policy issues will play a secondary role in this year's speech. It is expected that Putin will primarily discuss the ordinary problems facing his country, including the major issue of waste disposal that has plagued Russia.