Putin also addressed economic differences with the Ukraine and Georgia, and he was also criticized for oil policies, namely rejection of economic diversification efforts. Russia is currently suffering due to the sharp drop in crude oil prices, as those revenues are crucial to Russia’s economy. Finally, Putin promised Russians that their pensions and unemployment benefits would not be compromised given the economic crunch.

Domestically speaking, Putin is strategically improving his identity. In both articles examined, analyses of his political intentions in the future were provided. There is some speculation in Russia that Putin may return to the presidency earlier than when the tenure of the current president, Dmitry Medvedev, is completed. In reassuring the Russian people and offering protection of their pensions and promises that unemployment costs will not be compromised, he is structuring himself by creating a strong, optimistic and supportive identity that the Russians will be able to relate to. Striving to protect institutions that Russians rely on will place Putin in a formidable position when the current economic woes pass, but only if he is successful.