Reporters ask world leaders questions all the time. No big deal. Right? But what's it like putting a question to Vladimir Putin - the president who ordered the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the leader whose country was accused this week by the head of MI6 of the export of chaos?
And imagine asking that question live on TV while millions of Russians are watching. It's a big responsibility. You don't want to mess up.
My question is about Russia's future. What kind of future are you planning for your country and your people? I asked President Putin.
He defended Russia's repressive foreign agent law, asserting its legitimacy based on similar laws in the West. However, he failed to acknowledge the law's draconian implications, which restrict public life for designated 'foreign agents.' During the exchange, he made notes before responding, emphasizing a deep-seated resentment towards Western leaders.
Putin's remarks suggest a willingness to cease hostilities if Europe shows respect towards Russia, raising questions about the sincerity of his intent. Yet, as long as Moscow ties its security needs to maximalist demands over Ukraine, European leaders are likely to remain skeptical.
And imagine asking that question live on TV while millions of Russians are watching. It's a big responsibility. You don't want to mess up.
My question is about Russia's future. What kind of future are you planning for your country and your people? I asked President Putin.
He defended Russia's repressive foreign agent law, asserting its legitimacy based on similar laws in the West. However, he failed to acknowledge the law's draconian implications, which restrict public life for designated 'foreign agents.' During the exchange, he made notes before responding, emphasizing a deep-seated resentment towards Western leaders.
Putin's remarks suggest a willingness to cease hostilities if Europe shows respect towards Russia, raising questions about the sincerity of his intent. Yet, as long as Moscow ties its security needs to maximalist demands over Ukraine, European leaders are likely to remain skeptical.
