Russian President Vladimir Putin's address to the Federal Assembly

The treaty was signed between Russia and the United States and it provides for the reduction of the nuclear arsenals of both countries

The Russian president stressed that Western countries have spent more than $150 billion on aiding and arming Kiev

In 2021, bank loans to the corporate sector grew by 11%, the mortgage portfolio grew by 20.4%

"Launch new projects, earn money, invest in Russia, invest in plants and jobs, help schools and universities, science and healthcare, culture and sport. This is the way you will grow your capital and earn recognition and gratitude from people for generations to come, while the government and society will definitely support you," the president said

The Russian leader expressed his gratitude to all Russian soldiers for their heroic efforts in the course of the special military operation in Ukraine

In the address, which lasted one hour and 45 minutes, the president brought up such issues as the special military operation, criticized the Western states’ policy and announced a number of new social and economic measures, including the creation of a special fund for supporting veterans of combat actions and an education reform

According to the Russian president, his prediction that Russian businessmen will have "to swallow the dust" trying to save their money came true

"What means were used against us in this sanctions aggression? Attempts were made to rupture business ties with Russian companies, disconnect the financial system from communication channels to smash our economy, deprive us of access to export markets and to hit revenues," the president said

The President recalled that some years ago, Russia used to harvest 60 million tons of grain per year, and now this is only the export potential of the country

The president added that Russian banks are operating steadily and the volume of bank loans to the corporate sector in 2022 increased by 14% compared to 2021