Russia: Society

The Russian government's diplomatic and media posture this month involved commentary on several international incidents. Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova suggested an attack on RT journalists in Lebanon was not accidental, criticized sanctions against Russian journalists, and commented on the exclusion of a Russian ballerina from an event in Rome. Domestically, President Vladimir Putin issued standard International Women's Day greetings to women in Russia.

Analyses reported that President Vladimir Putin's strategic position has been strengthened by the conflict between the United States and Iran, creating new geopolitical opportunities. Putin himself mentioned the coronavirus in the context of this conflict, prompting foreign media speculation on whether the situation ultimately benefits Russia. A video showing Putin coughing during a Kremlin meeting was released, prompting renewed speculation about his health.

In other developments, a blogger who previously supported the Kremlin was placed in a psychiatric facility after publicly criticizing Putin. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov commented on rumors about Vladislav Surkov's departure, urging a focus on Russia's interests over what he called 'enemy social networks.' Separately, an Italian politician expressed hope the Venice Biennale would reconsider its decision regarding the Russian Pavilion.