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Version 8 Version 9
Vladimir Putin press conference: 'Russian military personnel were in Ukraine' - as it happened Vladimir Putin press conference: 'Russian military personnel were in Ukraine' - as it happened
(6 days later)
12.37pm GMT12:3712.37pm GMT12:37
SummarySummary
Here is a summary of the key points from the Putin press conference:Here is a summary of the key points from the Putin press conference:
Putin upshot: Turkey is licking America's butt; people like Blatter should get Nobel; 'people' in Donbass carried out certain military tasksPutin upshot: Turkey is licking America's butt; people like Blatter should get Nobel; 'people' in Donbass carried out certain military tasks
That’s it from me. Thanks for reading.That’s it from me. Thanks for reading.
Updated at 1.16pm GMTUpdated at 1.16pm GMT
12.14pm GMT12:1412.14pm GMT12:14
Before he left - Putin said Russia doesn’t see a new anti-terror coalition led by Saudi Arabia as hostile to its interests, but he called for pooling global efforts to fight against terrorism. He said that he doesn’t quite understand the purpose of creating the new coalition, because many of its members are part of the U.S.-led coalition. At the same time, he added that Russia has cooperated with Saudi Arabia despite their differences on the Syrian crisis.Before he left - Putin said Russia doesn’t see a new anti-terror coalition led by Saudi Arabia as hostile to its interests, but he called for pooling global efforts to fight against terrorism. He said that he doesn’t quite understand the purpose of creating the new coalition, because many of its members are part of the U.S.-led coalition. At the same time, he added that Russia has cooperated with Saudi Arabia despite their differences on the Syrian crisis.
12.12pm GMT12:1212.12pm GMT12:12
That’s it, the marathon is over: 3 hours 10 mins.That’s it, the marathon is over: 3 hours 10 mins.
Updated at 1.16pm GMTUpdated at 1.16pm GMT
12.07pm GMT12:0712.07pm GMT12:07
Putin says Russia needs to work together with Kiev to resolve Ukraine conflict as soon as possible:Putin says Russia needs to work together with Kiev to resolve Ukraine conflict as soon as possible:
12.04pm GMT12:0412.04pm GMT12:04
Putin says the killing of opposition leader Nemtsov must be investigated and punished.Putin says the killing of opposition leader Nemtsov must be investigated and punished.
Putin says hasn't discussed Nemtsov murder investigation with Chechnya's Kadyrov & won't discuss.1st need to prove culprits are hiding therePutin says hasn't discussed Nemtsov murder investigation with Chechnya's Kadyrov & won't discuss.1st need to prove culprits are hiding there
Putin vows there won't be a cover-up in Nemtsov murder investigation.Putin vows there won't be a cover-up in Nemtsov murder investigation.
Updated at 12.06pm GMTUpdated at 12.06pm GMT
12.03pm GMT12:0312.03pm GMT12:03
Putin says Russia will not impose sanctions on Ukraine:Putin says Russia will not impose sanctions on Ukraine:
12.02pm GMT12:0212.02pm GMT12:02
Putin said Russia is working with Egypt to restore air links that Moscow cut following the crash of a Russian airliner on the Sinai Peninsula. Moscow has said the plane was downed by an explosive device.Putin said Russia is working with Egypt to restore air links that Moscow cut following the crash of a Russian airliner on the Sinai Peninsula. Moscow has said the plane was downed by an explosive device.
He said Russia decided to suspend air travel with Egypt because its agencies aren’t immediately capable of guaranteeing safety of Russian citizens. He said that the move wasn’t political and he praised the Egyptian president for his “great personal courage” in fighting terror.He said Russia decided to suspend air travel with Egypt because its agencies aren’t immediately capable of guaranteeing safety of Russian citizens. He said that the move wasn’t political and he praised the Egyptian president for his “great personal courage” in fighting terror.
Putin added that the air links will be restored after Russian and Egyptian officials work out a set of measures to ensure safety, including the presence of Russian representatives at Egyptian airports.Putin added that the air links will be restored after Russian and Egyptian officials work out a set of measures to ensure safety, including the presence of Russian representatives at Egyptian airports.
11.55am GMT11:5511.55am GMT11:55
I mean we’ve been going for three hours now.I mean we’ve been going for three hours now.
We haven't had many laughs during this #Putin presser. Now he's poking fun at Kalingras journalist whose site is named after a German dishWe haven't had many laughs during this #Putin presser. Now he's poking fun at Kalingras journalist whose site is named after a German dish
Kaliningrad Q about military guy who ran over a journalist and escaped punishment. Putin says it's awful. Expect him jailed by dinner time.Kaliningrad Q about military guy who ran over a journalist and escaped punishment. Putin says it's awful. Expect him jailed by dinner time.
Updated at 1.16pm GMTUpdated at 1.16pm GMT
11.45am GMT11:4511.45am GMT11:45
Shaun WalkerShaun Walker
Vladimir Putin has for the first time admitted the presence of Russian military specialists in east Ukraine.Vladimir Putin has for the first time admitted the presence of Russian military specialists in east Ukraine.
Russia has repeatedly denied a military presence in the conflict, despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary. But the Russian president conceded there were military intelligence officers operating in the country in a marathon press conference on Thursday.Russia has repeatedly denied a military presence in the conflict, despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary. But the Russian president conceded there were military intelligence officers operating in the country in a marathon press conference on Thursday.
Asked by a Ukrainian reporter an hour into the briefing about two Russian military intelligence officers captured by Kiev and currently on trial in Ukraine, Putin said: “We never said there were not people there who carried out certain tasks including in the military sphere.” He insisted this was not the same as regular Russian troops.Asked by a Ukrainian reporter an hour into the briefing about two Russian military intelligence officers captured by Kiev and currently on trial in Ukraine, Putin said: “We never said there were not people there who carried out certain tasks including in the military sphere.” He insisted this was not the same as regular Russian troops.
There was no opportunity for a follow-up question to examine how many military specialists Putin believes were in Ukraine and what exact tasks they were carrying out. At key moments in the conflict in east Ukraine there has been much evidence of regular Russian army involvement.There was no opportunity for a follow-up question to examine how many military specialists Putin believes were in Ukraine and what exact tasks they were carrying out. At key moments in the conflict in east Ukraine there has been much evidence of regular Russian army involvement.
Putin also initially denied the “little green men” present during the annexation of Crimea were Russian soldiers but afterwards admitted they were.Putin also initially denied the “little green men” present during the annexation of Crimea were Russian soldiers but afterwards admitted they were.
In the first part of his press conference, Putin also dealt with questions about the Russian economy, corruption, Syria and the recent crisis in relations with Turkey.In the first part of his press conference, Putin also dealt with questions about the Russian economy, corruption, Syria and the recent crisis in relations with Turkey.
He struck an uncompromising note on Turkey, saying if the shooting down of a Russian jet had been an accident, officials could have called Moscow, but instead they called Nato first.He struck an uncompromising note on Turkey, saying if the shooting down of a Russian jet had been an accident, officials could have called Moscow, but instead they called Nato first.
“Someone in the Turkish leadership tried to lick the Americans in a particular place, I don’t know whether the Americans needed that,” said Putin.“Someone in the Turkish leadership tried to lick the Americans in a particular place, I don’t know whether the Americans needed that,” said Putin.
11.41am GMT11:4111.41am GMT11:41
Peaks and troughs. Anyone have any snacks?Peaks and troughs. Anyone have any snacks?
Two hours and 40 minutes so far and we have a question from the "Red North" a newspaper in the Yamal republic about road building delays.Two hours and 40 minutes so far and we have a question from the "Red North" a newspaper in the Yamal republic about road building delays.
Updated at 11.48am GMTUpdated at 11.48am GMT
11.39am GMT11:3911.39am GMT11:39
Putin admits to Russian personnel in Ukraine from “military field”:Putin admits to Russian personnel in Ukraine from “military field”:
11.35am GMT11:3511.35am GMT11:35
Who’s claiming to be Putin’s rose? ‘fess up.Who’s claiming to be Putin’s rose? ‘fess up.
NTV has a question on unreliable Ukrainians, behind him someone has the intriguing poster "Putin's rose" pic.twitter.com/lMUB3jYgMiNTV has a question on unreliable Ukrainians, behind him someone has the intriguing poster "Putin's rose" pic.twitter.com/lMUB3jYgMi
11.24am GMT11:2411.24am GMT11:24
Putin on Sepp Blatter and the Nobel prize:Putin on Sepp Blatter and the Nobel prize:
11.20am GMT11:2011.20am GMT11:20
Mikhail Rubin from RBC asks: Is Ekaterina Tikhonva your daughter? Putin doesn’t deny nor confirm - “due to security matters”. He adds: “Every person has the right to decide his own future. My daughters were never star children, they’re just living their lives, in a very dignified way.”Mikhail Rubin from RBC asks: Is Ekaterina Tikhonva your daughter? Putin doesn’t deny nor confirm - “due to security matters”. He adds: “Every person has the right to decide his own future. My daughters were never star children, they’re just living their lives, in a very dignified way.”
My daughters live in Russia and never left to go live anywhere/ They only studied in RussiaMy daughters live in Russia and never left to go live anywhere/ They only studied in Russia
Putin says they speak three languages fluently. “They’re not active in business and they don’t do politics”.Putin says they speak three languages fluently. “They’re not active in business and they don’t do politics”.
Putin now saying his daughters are in Russia, just as he said, and speak other languages and use them at work.Putin now saying his daughters are in Russia, just as he said, and speak other languages and use them at work.
Putin not denying that his daughter runs organization at Moscow State University in response to question about her. Also not confirming.Putin not denying that his daughter runs organization at Moscow State University in response to question about her. Also not confirming.
11.07am GMT11:0711.07am GMT11:07
Putin said Russia is ready to work to improve ties with the United States, and to work with anyone who is elected its next president.Putin said Russia is ready to work to improve ties with the United States, and to work with anyone who is elected its next president.
He said his talks with US Secretary of State John Kerry earlier this week have shown that Washington is ready to “move toward settling the issues that can only be settled through joint efforts.”He said his talks with US Secretary of State John Kerry earlier this week have shown that Washington is ready to “move toward settling the issues that can only be settled through joint efforts.”
11.01am GMT11:0111.01am GMT11:01
Here’s what Putin said about the doping scandal and FIFA:Here’s what Putin said about the doping scandal and FIFA:
Putin again suggesting US justice department's actions in FIFA scandal "unacceptable."Putin again suggesting US justice department's actions in FIFA scandal "unacceptable."
Putin: Blatter is a "very respected person. He has done a lot for the growth of football."Putin: Blatter is a "very respected person. He has done a lot for the growth of football."
Putin: We received our right to hold the World Cup "in a completely honest competition."Putin: We received our right to hold the World Cup "in a completely honest competition."
Putin on FIFA: Let's wait for the results of the investigation.Putin on FIFA: Let's wait for the results of the investigation.
11.00am GMT11:0011.00am GMT11:00
Someone just told Putin he looks “fit”.Someone just told Putin he looks “fit”.
10.58am GMT10:5810.58am GMT10:58
Putin just said FIFA’s Sepp Blatter should get a Nobel peace prize. Because why not...Putin just said FIFA’s Sepp Blatter should get a Nobel peace prize. Because why not...
Putin "Sepp Blatter is a very respected person. He has done a lot to develop world football. We should give him the Nobel peace prize" (!!!)Putin "Sepp Blatter is a very respected person. He has done a lot to develop world football. We should give him the Nobel peace prize" (!!!)
10.50am GMT10:5010.50am GMT10:50
Putin on Assad and a political solution in Syria:Putin on Assad and a political solution in Syria:
... and on a Russian base in Syria:... and on a Russian base in Syria:
Updated at 10.52am GMTUpdated at 10.52am GMT
10.41am GMT10:4110.41am GMT10:41
Putin says Ukraine is ruled by foreign overlords who have appointed Mikheil Saakashvili.Putin says Ukraine is ruled by foreign overlords who have appointed Mikheil Saakashvili.
Ah and there's the sarcastic reference to Saakashvili. Appointing him was "spitting in the face of the Ukrainian people"Ah and there's the sarcastic reference to Saakashvili. Appointing him was "spitting in the face of the Ukrainian people"
"We're not only going to run you from outside but we're going to put foreigners in all the key positions." Putin, paraphrasing the State Dep"We're not only going to run you from outside but we're going to put foreigners in all the key positions." Putin, paraphrasing the State Dep
Surprisingly missed the opportunity to call Saakashvili appointment "a glass of water in the face of the Ukrainian people"Surprisingly missed the opportunity to call Saakashvili appointment "a glass of water in the face of the Ukrainian people"
10.37am GMT10:3710.37am GMT10:37
Putin just referred to “the territorial integrity of Ukraine... I mean, Georgia”. Oops.Putin just referred to “the territorial integrity of Ukraine... I mean, Georgia”. Oops.
10.30am GMT10:3010.30am GMT10:30
Here’s a clip of Putin on Turkey:Here’s a clip of Putin on Turkey:
10.29am GMT10:2910.29am GMT10:29
Putin is now defending the Platon tax that has sparked truckers’ protests in Russia.Putin is now defending the Platon tax that has sparked truckers’ protests in Russia.
10.26am GMT10:2610.26am GMT10:26
More details regarding Putin’s admission that Russia had personnel in Ukraine, from AFP:More details regarding Putin’s admission that Russia had personnel in Ukraine, from AFP:
Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday that Russia did have personnel in eastern Ukraine who were carrying out certain military tasks but denied Moscow had deployed regular troops there.Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday that Russia did have personnel in eastern Ukraine who were carrying out certain military tasks but denied Moscow had deployed regular troops there.
“We never said there were no people there who were carrying out certain tasks including in the military sphere,” Putin told an annual news conference.“We never said there were no people there who were carrying out certain tasks including in the military sphere,” Putin told an annual news conference.
“But that does not mean there are Russian (regular) troops there, feel the difference.”“But that does not mean there are Russian (regular) troops there, feel the difference.”
Putin said Russia was ready to persuade separatists in eastern Ukraine that a compromise was needed in order to achieve a political settlement of the conflict there.Putin said Russia was ready to persuade separatists in eastern Ukraine that a compromise was needed in order to achieve a political settlement of the conflict there.
He also said he expected trade relations with Ukraine to worsen, but that Moscow would not impose any sanctions on Kiev related to its trade deal with the European Union.He also said he expected trade relations with Ukraine to worsen, but that Moscow would not impose any sanctions on Kiev related to its trade deal with the European Union.
10.20am GMT10:2010.20am GMT10:20
Putin has dodged questions about Turchak, Chaika, and Rotenberg. He’s made a joke about fur coats instead.Putin has dodged questions about Turchak, Chaika, and Rotenberg. He’s made a joke about fur coats instead.
As for Chaika and Turchak, Putin talks about a joke where people mistakenly accuse people for stealing a fur coat, says need to investigate.As for Chaika and Turchak, Putin talks about a joke where people mistakenly accuse people for stealing a fur coat, says need to investigate.
He said it was not yet clear whether the children of Prosecutor-General Yuri Chaika had actually committed any crimes, an allegation recently made by the opposition.He said it was not yet clear whether the children of Prosecutor-General Yuri Chaika had actually committed any crimes, an allegation recently made by the opposition.
A fund run by opposition activist Alexei Navalny has said that Chaika and his family had been involved in crimes, including corruption schemes.A fund run by opposition activist Alexei Navalny has said that Chaika and his family had been involved in crimes, including corruption schemes.
Updated at 10.38am GMTUpdated at 10.38am GMT
10.06am GMT10:0610.06am GMT10:06
Some points from Putin on Ukraine:Some points from Putin on Ukraine:
Updated at 10.17am GMTUpdated at 10.17am GMT
10.04am GMT10:0410.04am GMT10:04
Here’s some copy from the Associated Press about Putin’s comments on Syria.Here’s some copy from the Associated Press about Putin’s comments on Syria.
President Vladimir Putin says that Russian military operation in Syria will continue until a political process starts. Putin said at a televised news conference that once the Syrians decide it’s time to stop fighting and launch talks, “we aren’t going to be more Syrian than the Syrians themselves,” and Moscow will wrap up its military action.President Vladimir Putin says that Russian military operation in Syria will continue until a political process starts. Putin said at a televised news conference that once the Syrians decide it’s time to stop fighting and launch talks, “we aren’t going to be more Syrian than the Syrians themselves,” and Moscow will wrap up its military action.
He says that he was unsure whether Russia needs a permanent military base in Syria. He said new Russian weapons, such as sea- and air-launched cruise missiles, give Moscow enough punch to strike an enemy and there may be no need for a permanent base in Syria.He says that he was unsure whether Russia needs a permanent military base in Syria. He said new Russian weapons, such as sea- and air-launched cruise missiles, give Moscow enough punch to strike an enemy and there may be no need for a permanent base in Syria.
Putin also said the Syrian people themselves must determine who rules the country.Putin also said the Syrian people themselves must determine who rules the country.
Putin, who met U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry earlier this week, said Moscow supports a U.S. draft of a U.N. Security Council resolution on Syria. He says a new constitution for Syria must be drafted, and a new election prepared in which the Syrians themselves will determine its leadership.Putin, who met U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry earlier this week, said Moscow supports a U.S. draft of a U.N. Security Council resolution on Syria. He says a new constitution for Syria must be drafted, and a new election prepared in which the Syrians themselves will determine its leadership.
He adds that Russia believes that a political settlement is the only way to end the Syrian crisis.He adds that Russia believes that a political settlement is the only way to end the Syrian crisis.
Putin says Russia and the U.S. agree on the need to ensure work on a new constitution and create mechanisms of control over future elections.Putin says Russia and the U.S. agree on the need to ensure work on a new constitution and create mechanisms of control over future elections.
Updated at 10.12am GMTUpdated at 10.12am GMT
10.02am GMT10:0210.02am GMT10:02
Putin referred to Ukraine as “our brotherly republic, as I never get tired of saying.”Putin referred to Ukraine as “our brotherly republic, as I never get tired of saying.”
A Ukrainian journalist asked if captured Russian officers would be exchanged for Ukrainian helicopter pilot Nadezhda Savchenko. Putin says the criminal case against them has excluded this possibility.A Ukrainian journalist asked if captured Russian officers would be exchanged for Ukrainian helicopter pilot Nadezhda Savchenko. Putin says the criminal case against them has excluded this possibility.
Face of Ukrainian journalist as #Putin again says no Russian soldiers are in Ukraine, Savchenko exchange impossible pic.twitter.com/f7CqhpNkYKFace of Ukrainian journalist as #Putin again says no Russian soldiers are in Ukraine, Savchenko exchange impossible pic.twitter.com/f7CqhpNkYK
Updated at 10.19am GMTUpdated at 10.19am GMT
9.57am GMT09:579.57am GMT09:57
Putin on Ukraine: “We never said there were not people there who carried out certain tasks including in the military sphere”. But this is different to the regular Russian army, he adds.Putin on Ukraine: “We never said there were not people there who carried out certain tasks including in the military sphere”. But this is different to the regular Russian army, he adds.
Putin: We have never denied that we have people in Ukraine, including those working in the military sphere, but not regular troopsPutin: We have never denied that we have people in Ukraine, including those working in the military sphere, but not regular troops
Updated at 9.58am GMTUpdated at 9.58am GMT
9.56am GMT09:569.56am GMT09:56
Kremlin pool reporter has a big scoop. Putin has a new cup.Kremlin pool reporter has a big scoop. Putin has a new cup.
У Путина в этом году новая чашка. В прошлом году была другая - необычная pic.twitter.com/gXw3mxyccMУ Путина в этом году новая чашка. В прошлом году была другая - необычная pic.twitter.com/gXw3mxyccM
Updated at 9.57am GMTUpdated at 9.57am GMT
9.55am GMT09:559.55am GMT09:55
Russia doesn’t necessarily need a permanent base in Syria, Putin says.Russia doesn’t necessarily need a permanent base in Syria, Putin says.
"Why do we need a permanent base in Syria? If we need to get somebody, we'll get 'em". Applause again."Why do we need a permanent base in Syria? If we need to get somebody, we'll get 'em". Applause again.
Updated at 10.07am GMTUpdated at 10.07am GMT
9.54am GMT09:549.54am GMT09:54
Time for a coffee tbh.Time for a coffee tbh.
So basically there is no clear plan in Syria. #PutinPresserSo basically there is no clear plan in Syria. #PutinPresser
9.52am GMT09:529.52am GMT09:52
Putin says Russia has partially succeeded in uniting Syrian government and opposition forces in their fight against ISIS. He says Russia will continue air strikes in Syria for as long as Syrian army continues its own military operations.Putin says Russia has partially succeeded in uniting Syrian government and opposition forces in their fight against ISIS. He says Russia will continue air strikes in Syria for as long as Syrian army continues its own military operations.
9.51am GMT09:519.51am GMT09:51
Putin says the Russian plan on Syria generally overlaps with the US one.Putin says the Russian plan on Syria generally overlaps with the US one.
Putin: Our plan on Syria generally overlaps with the American vision.Putin: Our plan on Syria generally overlaps with the American vision.
#Putin says Kerry came to Moscow with project for UN resolution. Good step but Syrian government should also approve pic.twitter.com/NE5IyR3qcO#Putin says Kerry came to Moscow with project for UN resolution. Good step but Syrian government should also approve pic.twitter.com/NE5IyR3qcO
Updated at 10.07am GMTUpdated at 10.07am GMT
9.50am GMT09:509.50am GMT09:50
State run Channel One asks: “Do we have a clear plan on Syria? Or are we being impulsive?”State run Channel One asks: “Do we have a clear plan on Syria? Or are we being impulsive?”
Putin says ISIS is a threat to everyone. “The quicker we can deal with it. The better. Nothing other than political solution [in Syria]”.Putin says ISIS is a threat to everyone. “The quicker we can deal with it. The better. Nothing other than political solution [in Syria]”.
Updated at 10.07am GMTUpdated at 10.07am GMT
9.47am GMT09:479.47am GMT09:47
Putin says he doesn’t see any prospect for reviving relations with Turkey.Putin says he doesn’t see any prospect for reviving relations with Turkey.
#Putin says sees no possibility to mend ties with Turkey on world stage after shooting down of Russian warplane#Putin says sees no possibility to mend ties with Turkey on world stage after shooting down of Russian warplane
If it was an accident, pick up the phone & explain. Instead Turkey hid behind NATO, #Putin says pic.twitter.com/yJ8eg3OL7RIf it was an accident, pick up the phone & explain. Instead Turkey hid behind NATO, #Putin says pic.twitter.com/yJ8eg3OL7R
#Putin says ISIS arose to fill power vacuum made by US invasion of Iraq. Uses Islamic slogans to keep oil flowing pic.twitter.com/SIIlkK01YI#Putin says ISIS arose to fill power vacuum made by US invasion of Iraq. Uses Islamic slogans to keep oil flowing pic.twitter.com/SIIlkK01YI
Putin says Ataturk would be rolling in his grave over Islamization in modern Turkey.Putin says Ataturk would be rolling in his grave over Islamization in modern Turkey.
Putin uses his classic line when he clashes with foreign countries: argument with Turkey is with leadership, not peoplePutin uses his classic line when he clashes with foreign countries: argument with Turkey is with leadership, not people
Putin on Russia's Turkish-speaking people: You are part of Russia so don't rock the boat. Turkey's leadership "stabbed us in the back"Putin on Russia's Turkish-speaking people: You are part of Russia so don't rock the boat. Turkey's leadership "stabbed us in the back"
Wow, Putin completely ignores part of Q about Turkish students deported etc, sticks with v tough line on relations being ruined. Signal.Wow, Putin completely ignores part of Q about Turkish students deported etc, sticks with v tough line on relations being ruined. Signal.
Also... what?Also... what?
Putin says the Islamist government in Turkey tried to sell itself to the West is "our son of a bitch"Putin says the Islamist government in Turkey tried to sell itself to the West is "our son of a bitch"
9.42am GMT09:429.42am GMT09:42
Putin on Turkey shooting down Russian bomber: "Did they think we'd run away? No, we're not that kind of country." pic.twitter.com/4tyFnQuE5lPutin on Turkey shooting down Russian bomber: "Did they think we'd run away? No, we're not that kind of country." pic.twitter.com/4tyFnQuE5l
9.39am GMT09:399.39am GMT09:39
Oh boy...Oh boy...
"Someone in the Turkish leadership tried to lick the Americans in a particular place". *laughter, applause*"Someone in the Turkish leadership tried to lick the Americans in a particular place". *laughter, applause*
9.38am GMT09:389.38am GMT09:38
Putin is angry that Ankara called Brussels, not Moscow, when the Russian jet was downed.Putin is angry that Ankara called Brussels, not Moscow, when the Russian jet was downed.
Good question from Tatarstan about Tatarstan's ties to Turkey. Shows up stupid comments abt Turkey by Culture Minister Medinsky too. #PutinGood question from Tatarstan about Tatarstan's ties to Turkey. Shows up stupid comments abt Turkey by Culture Minister Medinsky too. #Putin
And here comes Anadolou, talking about post-#russianjet harassment of Turks in Russia. Because yes, goddamit, it is happening. #PutinAnd here comes Anadolou, talking about post-#russianjet harassment of Turks in Russia. Because yes, goddamit, it is happening. #Putin
#Putin angry that Ankara called Brussels, not Moscow, when #russianjet downed. Think he saw it as personal slight on top of everything else.#Putin angry that Ankara called Brussels, not Moscow, when #russianjet downed. Think he saw it as personal slight on top of everything else.
9.35am GMT09:359.35am GMT09:35
Putin says the downing of the Russian jet by Turkey was a hostile act.Putin says the downing of the Russian jet by Turkey was a hostile act.
Putin: Downing of Russian military aircraft by Turkey was ``a hostile act." People were killed.. no accident. They tried to cover it upPutin: Downing of Russian military aircraft by Turkey was ``a hostile act." People were killed.. no accident. They tried to cover it up
Updated at 9.38am GMTUpdated at 9.38am GMT
9.34am GMT09:349.34am GMT09:34
We’ve gone to two more Turkey questions. The Guardian’s Shaun Walker says it looks like a planned opportunity for Putin to give the signal to officials to stop harrassing Turks in Russia.We’ve gone to two more Turkey questions. The Guardian’s Shaun Walker says it looks like a planned opportunity for Putin to give the signal to officials to stop harrassing Turks in Russia.
Updated at 9.34am GMTUpdated at 9.34am GMT
9.32am GMT09:329.32am GMT09:32
Putin interrupted Peskov to take a question from a Tatar business journalist because she had “such a big sign”. She asked whether Russia should break off investment ties with Turkey.Putin interrupted Peskov to take a question from a Tatar business journalist because she had “such a big sign”. She asked whether Russia should break off investment ties with Turkey.
She's also telling Putin that if the President of Tatarstan has to stop calling himself a President, it could hurt feelings of all TatarsShe's also telling Putin that if the President of Tatarstan has to stop calling himself a President, it could hurt feelings of all Tatars
Putin asked about severing ties to the Turk world comes by Tatar journo. Turks are big investors in Muslim-dominated TatarstanPutin asked about severing ties to the Turk world comes by Tatar journo. Turks are big investors in Muslim-dominated Tatarstan
Updated at 10.06am GMTUpdated at 10.06am GMT
9.30am GMT09:309.30am GMT09:30
The map of Russia behind Putin’s head includes the annexed Crimea.The map of Russia behind Putin’s head includes the annexed Crimea.
Putin speaking with background of Crimea-included map of Russia pic.twitter.com/H57CvMPlInPutin speaking with background of Crimea-included map of Russia pic.twitter.com/H57CvMPlIn
9.27am GMT09:279.27am GMT09:27
WHOSE IS IT?!WHOSE IS IT?!
This is how you have to try to get a question. One of these signs says "I'm pregnant". Really. pic.twitter.com/BglhK5xkOFThis is how you have to try to get a question. One of these signs says "I'm pregnant". Really. pic.twitter.com/BglhK5xkOF
Updated at 9.27am GMTUpdated at 9.27am GMT
9.25am GMT09:259.25am GMT09:25
Here’s a video of Putin’s “old joke”. I have a feeling the punchline got lost in translation.Here’s a video of Putin’s “old joke”. I have a feeling the punchline got lost in translation.
9.25am GMT09:259.25am GMT09:25
And how would you attempt to draw Putin’s attention?And how would you attempt to draw Putin’s attention?
She wants to get Putin's attention thanks to this doll. Let's wish her luck. #PutinPresser #oF24 pic.twitter.com/gEogH1W5qpShe wants to get Putin's attention thanks to this doll. Let's wish her luck. #PutinPresser #oF24 pic.twitter.com/gEogH1W5qp
9.24am GMT09:249.24am GMT09:24
Putin just called for a round of applause for a RIA Novosti journalist who asked a question about why central bank should lower rates.Putin just called for a round of applause for a RIA Novosti journalist who asked a question about why central bank should lower rates.
9.22am GMT09:229.22am GMT09:22
Meanwhile on Red Square a man has apparently tried to set himself on fire.Meanwhile on Red Square a man has apparently tried to set himself on fire.
В Москве мужчина попытался совершить самосожжение на Красной площади https://t.co/CbWW6QWZGL pic.twitter.com/NeciP967edВ Москве мужчина попытался совершить самосожжение на Красной площади https://t.co/CbWW6QWZGL pic.twitter.com/NeciP967ed
9.21am GMT09:219.21am GMT09:21
AP reports:AP reports:
President Vladimir Putin says that Russia’s economy is showing signs of stabilization despite plummeting oil prices.President Vladimir Putin says that Russia’s economy is showing signs of stabilization despite plummeting oil prices.
He said that despite a GDP drop caused by a drop in global oil prices, Russia’s main commodity, the nation’s industries have started to rebound.He said that despite a GDP drop caused by a drop in global oil prices, Russia’s main commodity, the nation’s industries have started to rebound.
He said the nation’s currencyy reserves stand at $364 billion and a capital outflow has slowed.He said the nation’s currencyy reserves stand at $364 billion and a capital outflow has slowed.
9.17am GMT09:179.17am GMT09:17
He’s still going.... the gist is: economic forecasts will have to be reviewed due to falling oil prices. But Russia’s economy has already turned the corner.He’s still going.... the gist is: economic forecasts will have to be reviewed due to falling oil prices. But Russia’s economy has already turned the corner.
First question gets a 10-minute answer about the economy, which is still going. It's not exactly Paxman out here.First question gets a 10-minute answer about the economy, which is still going. It's not exactly Paxman out here.
Updated at 9.19am GMTUpdated at 9.19am GMT
9.17am GMT09:179.17am GMT09:17
Putin is coughing a lot. It’s cold in Moscow this time of year.Putin is coughing a lot. It’s cold in Moscow this time of year.
He says Russia has passed the peak of the economic crisis. Uses weird anecdote about life not always being black and white.He says Russia has passed the peak of the economic crisis. Uses weird anecdote about life not always being black and white.
Putin starts with anecdote: What looked black last year now looks white. Even $50/barrel of oil now looks optimistic pic.twitter.com/6A3h1fkoAhPutin starts with anecdote: What looked black last year now looks white. Even $50/barrel of oil now looks optimistic pic.twitter.com/6A3h1fkoAh
Putin laments that the government has had to recalculate budget twice already and now is even "too optimistic''' factoring in oil at $50Putin laments that the government has had to recalculate budget twice already and now is even "too optimistic''' factoring in oil at $50
Putin: Russian economy has passed the peak of the crisis, stabilization under way.Putin: Russian economy has passed the peak of the crisis, stabilization under way.
Updated at 9.19am GMTUpdated at 9.19am GMT
9.09am GMT09:099.09am GMT09:09
The first question has been about the Russian economy.The first question has been about the Russian economy.
First Q about tough economy situation. Putin tells joke about changing perceptions; says Russian economic predictions were based on $100 oilFirst Q about tough economy situation. Putin tells joke about changing perceptions; says Russian economic predictions were based on $100 oil
9.06am GMT09:069.06am GMT09:06
Putin opened his speech by saying he’s already made all his key points in his address to parliament, but there must be questions that need additional clarification. That’s it, we’re off to questions already.Putin opened his speech by saying he’s already made all his key points in his address to parliament, but there must be questions that need additional clarification. That’s it, we’re off to questions already.
9.03am GMT09:039.03am GMT09:03
Waiting for Putin.... it’s tense.Waiting for Putin.... it’s tense.
8.57am GMT08:578.57am GMT08:57
The conference hasn’t even started yet and we’re already talking about a bear with an axe.The conference hasn’t even started yet and we’re already talking about a bear with an axe.
Screen currently has flags of Russian regions up, one of which is A BEAR WITH AN AXE. How cool is that? pic.twitter.com/8KkViyJxzQScreen currently has flags of Russian regions up, one of which is A BEAR WITH AN AXE. How cool is that? pic.twitter.com/8KkViyJxzQ
8.40am GMT08:40 8.55am GMT08:55
Here’s a photo of a fresher faced Putin at his first big press conference in 2001. They say politics can age a man. Thoughts?Here’s a photo of a fresher faced Putin at his first big press conference in 2001. They say politics can age a man. Thoughts?
Photo of Putin at 1st big press conference in 2001. It's got a certain Sovietesque je ne sais quois. @dimsmirnov175 pic.twitter.com/DKzpRYuQEgPhoto of Putin at 1st big press conference in 2001. It's got a certain Sovietesque je ne sais quois. @dimsmirnov175 pic.twitter.com/DKzpRYuQEg
An actual legitimate question that a lot of people were asking yesterday was whether Vladimir Putin is immortal? A photograph from 1920 that began circulating showed a Russian soldier who bears an uncanny resemblance to the country’s current leader. Another photo, taken of a Russian soldier in 1941, also looks very much like Putin. Edward Cullen eat your heart out.An actual legitimate question that a lot of people were asking yesterday was whether Vladimir Putin is immortal? A photograph from 1920 that began circulating showed a Russian soldier who bears an uncanny resemblance to the country’s current leader. Another photo, taken of a Russian soldier in 1941, also looks very much like Putin. Edward Cullen eat your heart out.
Conspiracy theorists suggest Vladimir Putin could be immortal https://t.co/ketDN6MP7j pic.twitter.com/DZE8nE2h81Conspiracy theorists suggest Vladimir Putin could be immortal https://t.co/ketDN6MP7j pic.twitter.com/DZE8nE2h81
Updated at 8.46am GMT 8.55am GMT08:55
8.35am GMT08:35
Welcome to our live coverage of Vladimir Putin’s annual press conference. It will be the 11th press conference Putin will have with Russian and international journalists during the three terms he has been head of state. These events have been known to go on for hours. Given that you could say there’s quite a lot for him to talk about this year, best get yourself settled in a comfy seat with a cup of your favourite brew.Welcome to our live coverage of Vladimir Putin’s annual press conference. It will be the 11th press conference Putin will have with Russian and international journalists during the three terms he has been head of state. These events have been known to go on for hours. Given that you could say there’s quite a lot for him to talk about this year, best get yourself settled in a comfy seat with a cup of your favourite brew.
Almost 1,400 journalists have received accreditation for this year’s event, according to the Kremlin website. Our Moscow correspondent Shaun Walker will be filing and tweeting from the scene throughout the morning. Here is his introduction:Almost 1,400 journalists have received accreditation for this year’s event, according to the Kremlin website. Our Moscow correspondent Shaun Walker will be filing and tweeting from the scene throughout the morning. Here is his introduction:
I’m in the hall waiting for the press conference to start, it’s a huge venue and there are 1400 journalists accredited this year, making it pretty hard to actually get a question in. everyone from world media to the smallest local Russian publication is here.I’m in the hall waiting for the press conference to start, it’s a huge venue and there are 1400 journalists accredited this year, making it pretty hard to actually get a question in. everyone from world media to the smallest local Russian publication is here.
The usual drill is that Putin’s press secretary Dmitry Peskov will ask some selected journalists for the first hour and a half, a mix of Russian state outlets and a few more independent or foreign journalists, who will ask questions loosely agreed in advance. After that, Putin tends to go for a pick and mix approach, calling on those who take his fancy. Many regional journalists have made signs or brought props to try to catch the leader’s attention.The usual drill is that Putin’s press secretary Dmitry Peskov will ask some selected journalists for the first hour and a half, a mix of Russian state outlets and a few more independent or foreign journalists, who will ask questions loosely agreed in advance. After that, Putin tends to go for a pick and mix approach, calling on those who take his fancy. Many regional journalists have made signs or brought props to try to catch the leader’s attention.
The format is advantageous to Putin – he does normally take a few awkward questions, but the format allows for no follow-up or cross examination, so he can usually bat any tricky questions away with little effort. He normally gives the impression of enjoying the session and in previous years has gone for nearly five hours without a break, though last year’s session was more modest, ending shortly after the allotted three hour mark.The format is advantageous to Putin – he does normally take a few awkward questions, but the format allows for no follow-up or cross examination, so he can usually bat any tricky questions away with little effort. He normally gives the impression of enjoying the session and in previous years has gone for nearly five hours without a break, though last year’s session was more modest, ending shortly after the allotted three hour mark.
The questions are likely to range over a wide range of issues, from the economy and local issues to the war in Syria. In previous years Putin has been asked to intervene in the building of a local kindergarten and asked how he manages to look so good.The questions are likely to range over a wide range of issues, from the economy and local issues to the war in Syria. In previous years Putin has been asked to intervene in the building of a local kindergarten and asked how he manages to look so good.
It will be interesting to see whether Putin takes a question on the extraordinary allegations aired recently by anti-corruption campaigner Alexei Navalny over the business and criminal links of the family of Russia’s prosecutor general. Sitting two rows in front of me is Georgy Alburov, who works for Navalny’s foundation and has somehow managed to get accredited.It will be interesting to see whether Putin takes a question on the extraordinary allegations aired recently by anti-corruption campaigner Alexei Navalny over the business and criminal links of the family of Russia’s prosecutor general. Sitting two rows in front of me is Georgy Alburov, who works for Navalny’s foundation and has somehow managed to get accredited.
Updated at 8.45am GMT