BBC – Russian President Vladimir Putin has suggested some opposition politicians are in the pay of foreign interests, saying it is unacceptable.
In an annual state-of-the-nation address in Moscow strong on patriotic themes, he talked of the need to preserve Russian national identity.
He urged more births, saying a family with three children should be the norm.
On the economy, Mr Putin said he wanted to “de-offshore” Russian business and curb fraud in public spending.
continues http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-20691886
WAPO – Putin vows to strengthen Russia’s economy and military might, bristles at foreign influence.
He also made new promises to boost the fight against corruption. Russia is considered to be one of the most corrupt countries in the world. A group that tracks global perception of the problem ranks Russia 143rd out of 183 countries.
In other news, the sun rose in the east this morning.