MOSCOW (AP) — Russia proudly unveiled an expansive exposition highlighting the nation’s achievements, set to run throughout the months leading up to the upcoming presidential election. This event is expected to coincide with President bid for a new term.
In March, Putin authorized the exposition through a decree, prompting speculation that it was strategically designed to establish an ideological framework for his reelection. While there were suggestions that Putin might announce his candidacy during the opening ceremony, his spokesperson later confirmed his absence from the event.
Having served as president or prime minister since 2000, Putin’s potential reelection could extend his term until 2030.
The exhibition takes place at VDNKh, the renowned exposition grounds in northern Moscow originally established by Josef Stalin. True to its Soviet era roots, VDNKh’s grand pavilions exhibit a distinct Soviet Gothic-style architecture, evoking nostalgia among many Russians and reflecting Putin’s ambition to restore Russia as a global superpower.
Thematically, the exposition showcases Russia as a diverse nation bound by a shared sense of national purpose, encompassing various ethnic groups and cultures. It features displays from all regions of Russia, including the disputed Luhansk and Donetsk regions of Ukraine that Russia claims to have annexed. Additionally, the exposition offers presentations centred around industry, education, and technology.
At its core, the event incorporates Russia’s perception of engaging in a civilizational struggle, a notion that gained prominence following Russia’s military intervention in Ukraine in February 2022.
“Any provocations and aggressive actions directed against Russia are destined to fail. We are a united people, connected by a shared history, fraternal bonds, and mutual understanding,” stated Putin in a message marking the exposition’s opening.
In his speech on the opening day, Nikolai Patrushev, a close ally of Putin and head of the national security council, expanded on this idea.
“In contrast to the West, Russia represents a civilizational choice founded on preservation of national sovereignty, mutual respect, equal partnership, traditional family values, protection of religious foundations, as well as adherence to universally accepted norms of morality, ethics, and social behavior,” Patrushev explained.
“Throughout history, Russia has consistently been a thorn in the side of the West, foiling their hegemonic aspirations,” Patrushev concluded.
