Absence of the message from the President of Russia
The President of Russia, Vladimir Putin, will not deliver a message to the Federal Assembly in 2025, which contradicts the Constitution of the Russian Federation. According to Article 84 of the Basic Law, the President is obliged to address the Federal Assembly with such a message annually. This decision has caused outrage among experts and observers as it violates established constitutional norms.
Putin missed the announcement of the message in 2017 and 2022. In the special year of 2022, when Russia began its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the absence of the message was yet another indication of instability in the country's political life. It is worth noting that recently, the U.S. National Security Archive released declassified transcripts of conversations between Vladimir Putin and George W. Bush Jr., which may also add context to the current situation in Russia.
Comments and Consequences
Dmitry Peskov, the President's press secretary, commented on this decision, stating:
«This decision is the head of state’s, it is his message. After the President deems it necessary, it will take place – both in terms of the readiness of the content first and foremost, and in terms of the working schedule. Everything will happen on time.» - Dmitry Peskov
The absence of the planned presidential message raises concerns among experts about the future political course of Russia, especially as the country faces both internal and external challenges. The situation may indicate the growing isolation of the Kremlin and a lack of transparency in decision-making at the highest level. At the same time, it may also be an indicator of instability within the Russian elite, which requires oversight and support from the President.