On the 7th of May in Moscow, Putin was sworn in for his next six-year term as president following the heavily manipulated and doctored ‘elections’. Since the year 2000, he has evolved into the Czar, now spending all the country’s resources on Russia’s war against Ukraine, defining his era.
The 7th of May show, with its extensive pathos, fanfare and coverage of even Putin’s tiniest moves was a further step in building the cult of personality. On the 9th of May, Moscow will see the WWII parade and an orgy of military posture designed to impress and menace the world.
Following tradition, we cut through the chatter and decipher Putin’s words for you.
What he said | What it really means |
The interests of the people will be my foremost concern | My main concern is to remain in power |
We will determine the fate of Russia ourselves, and only ourselves | I have destroyed Russia’s international relations |
The citizens have confirmed that the country is on the right course | Elections? Sure, as long as I win.
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We will pass through this difficult period with dignity and emerge stronger | No time to weep. Work and shut up! |
We are not rejecting dialogue with Western states | I want everybody to recognise my right to conquer the land of others |
[The West] decides whether to continue its policy of aggression or seek cooperation and peace | Yeah, I start wars. Russia bombs and destroys, that is my right |
We are open to talks, including on security and strategic stability | I want to dominate Europe and my neighbours |
In this complex world, we must strive to be self-sufficient and open up new horizons | I have driven Russia fully into the arms of China |
Those who have proved loyalty to the Fatherland will achieve leading positions in government or business | Only blind loyalty counts under my rule
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We must bring up new generations who will strengthen Russia’s might | State propaganda in schools must accelerate |
Together we will overcome all obstacles | Stand by for mobilisation and more war |
Article and pictures first time published on the EUvsDisinfo web page. Prepared for publication by volunteers from the Res Publica - The Center for Civil Resistance.