Journalist from RIA Novosti notes that Russia has been under international sanctions for many years and asks whether Moscow is ready for a new wave of sanctions. Putin says Russia "has lived under restrictions and sanctions" for practically its whole history. Repeats again that this is done to restrict Russia's power and development. Putin says Moscow defends its 160 million citizens "without bravado, modestly." Says that Russia's economy has "adapted" to sanctions and restrictions. Says Western sanctions are hurting the countries that imposed them. "They lost our market," he says. Admits the sanctions have had a "negative influence" on the economy, but shifts immediately to the "benefits" of being forced to think of new ways to develop the economy. Talks about the benefits of "import substitution," despite the fact it led to increases in retail prices. "There are minuses, but there are also pluses," he said.
Meduza takes Putin to task for stating that Russians' incomes were gradually rising after years of decline. Finds Putin's claim lacking.
Social media giving big thumbs down to Putin's statement that "bureaucracy is eternal. Defeating it isn't possible."
Regional journalist asks about recent regional elections. Says in several regions "opposition" candidates (from approved nonruling parties such as the Communists and the nationalist Liberal Democratic Party of Russia and now people are afraid their regions will be punished by being cut off from federal aid because of their protest vote. Putin says this question is ridiculous and that the Kremlin will meet with the "opposition" leaders. Says there have been such "opposition" leaders in the regions in the past and it hasn't been a problem working with them. Putin says government will "only help" any elected official.
If there hadn't been the Skripals, they would have thought of something else, Putin says about the former Russian spy and daughter poisoning case.
Next question is from RT. Mentioning Butina and other arrests, asks whether Putin thinks the U.S. is arresting people just to use as bargaining chips later. Putin says Russia is following the fate of its citizens properly, says Butina "was forced to confess to something," "was not carrying out any government orders." "I don't understand why she was arrested," Putin said. "There was no reason." About Skripal, Putin says "thank God" he's alive. Says the whole scandal was just a pretext for attacking Russia and restrain Russia's development as a competitor.