Putin discussed with Matvienko the provisions of the message to the Federal Assembly

Russian President Vladimir Putin held a working meeting with Chairman of the Federation Council Valentina Matviyenko, informed Kremlin press office.

During the meeting, Putin discussed with Matviyenko the main provisions of the address to the Federal Assembly, which the President announced earlier today. Matvienko, in turn, told the head of state about the results of the work and plans of the Federation Council for the spring session.

Putin’s address to the Federal Assembly took place today for the first time since 2021. It was held at the Gostiny Dvor in Moscow and became one of the longest – it lasted 1 hour and 45 minutes. In addition to members of both houses of parliament and heads of regions, participants in the special operation were also invited to the message this year.

During his speech, the president spoke about the geopolitical situation in the world, as well as about the causes and goals of the special operation of the Russian Federation. Putin announced new support measures for all those who work for the victory of the Russian Federation in the conflict in Ukraine – participants and veterans of hostilities, defense industry workers. First of all, he announced the creation of a special state fund for targeted assistance to veterans of the special operation and the families of the victims. In addition, Putin proposed to establish a vacation of 14 days every six months for all military personnel.

Putin also instructed the government to prepare additional measures to de-offshorize the economy and revise certain provisions of the Criminal Code on economic crimes. Putin also announced tax incentives for the purchase of domestic equipment and the need to train 1 million workers for all industries. In addition, he promised to more massively introduce advanced technologies in the development of the Russian army and navy – some of them are superior to foreign counterparts. The head of state also announced reform higher education.

In addition, the President announced suspension participation in the Strategic Offensive Arms Treaty (START-3). Immediately after the end of the message, Putin signed a decree repealing the decree on measures to implement Russia’s foreign policy, which was signed in 2012.