Part 3/8:
The nature of public discourse during Putin’s events raises questions about their authenticity. Experts argue these events are meticulously scripted, intended more for damage control rather than genuine engagement. They convey the impression of disorderly dialogue while ultimately functioning as a platform for Putin to project confidence and control over public sentiment. Despite acknowledging inflation as a "worrying signal," he attempts to disassociate it from the war's consequences. On the contrary, the recent sanctions on Russian banks, especially Gazprom Bank—vital for global energy payments—have caused a significant drop in the ruble’s value, prompting him to assert that there is no reason to panic. Such statements are often seen as troubling indicators of deeper issues at play.