- By Mike Eckel
First question at Putin's news conference goes to Mayak radio (state-run radio), about climate change and the Paris agreement.
Putin uses the opportunity to diss on the United States, which he asserts is the largest emitter of greenhouse warming gases in the world. And he waxes (somewhat) philosophical about the dangers of a warming planet to humanity.
He also says that Russia's forests will compensate for increased carbon dioxide emissions.
(several reporters have noted that December has been unusually warm in Moscow...)
Just like last year, the Kremlin announced that a record number of journalists have been accredited. Many haven’t got seats and are standing around wherever possible.
- By Mike Eckel
Putin's annual news conferences have become somewhat of a spectacle-- and not just because of Putin's skills as a showman.
In recent years, reporters have resorted to ever-more outlandish ways to try and get the attention of Putin. Some have drawn up sizable posters or signs, identifying where they're from.
Last year, some reporters started donning strange head-gear, and even costumes. One even came dressed as Snegurochka-- the Snow Maiden, from Russian folk tales, as TV Rain (Дождь) reminded.
Unclear if that trend will continue this year.
Stay tuned!
Navalny Live, the YouTube channel operated by Russian opposition politician and blogger Aleksei Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation, will be offering running commentary of Putin's press conference. The channel promises "to tell the whole truth regarding our president's promises and high-profile statements on air."
- By Mike Eckel
And we're live: RFE/RL's Live Blog for coverage of President Vladimir Putin's annual news conference. If past years are any judge, it should last at least a couple hours, so grab some popcorn.
The Kremlin says 1,895 journalists-- Russian and foreigners-- have been accredited to this year's event. Not all will attend, of course, but it's likely to be a big crowd.
RFE/RL reporters and editors, including from Current Time and RFE/RL's Russian Service, will be following along, offering commentary and observations and spot analysis.
You can watch it live online on state-run TV (albeit in original Russian).