The Guardian: Russians pressured to attend Putin’s star-studded election rally
Some were paid to attend, as part of apparent bid to show broad support for the president
Vladimir Putin, flanked by cheering supporters, strode on to a stage in the centre of Moscow’s colossal Luzhniki Stadium and urged a crowd of tens of thousands of flag-waving Russians to join him in building a bright and joyful future for the country’s children.
“Our ancestors lived here, we live here, and this is where our children and grandchildren will live,” Putin said on Saturday afternoon, at what was his sole campaign rally ahead of this month’s Russian presidential elections. “And we will do everything to make them happy!”
Standing beside Putin were celebrities and sports stars, including members of Russia’s men’s ice hockey team fresh from their triumph at the Winter Olympics. At Putin’s bidding, they burst into a rendition of Russia’s national anthem. Police said 80,000 people were present, with another 50,000 watching on big screens outside the stadium.
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WNU Editor: Some of my family members are strong Putin supporters. Two of them attended the rally and said it was great. A friend of mine who runs an independent news website in Russia also attended the rally .... he told me the opposite. The build-up and enthusiasm was not there, and many felt that they were obligated to show up. Russia's Presidential election will be held on March 18. I will be commenting more in the coming days on what is my take on this election.
More News On Putin Holding A Campaign Rally Two Weeks Before Russians Go To The Polls
More than 130,000 participate in rally For Strong Russia in Moscow -- TASS
Putin rally draws tens of thousands of supporters ahead of presidential election -- ABC News
Putin Promises Russian 'Victories' At Campaign Rally At Moscow Stadium -- RFE
Putin reelection campaign rally in Moscow -- Yahoo News
Once again, Vladimir Putin has engineered his election victory -- Douglas Schoen, The Hill
Putin feels vulnerable with an election looming -- Washington Post
