Russian President Vladimir Putin suggested offering more engaging alternatives to internet pornography to address what he described as its impact on “moral decay,” according to Russia Today.
Speaking during his annual ‘Direct Line’ event in Moscow on Thursday, Putin acknowledged that the issue extends beyond Russia and affects many other countries and that porn is a global ‘scourge’.
“This is not only our problem, but also the problem of many other countries,” Putin was quoted as saying by Russia Today. “The answer can be what? In general, you could ban it, but you should always offer an alternative that is more interesting than a porn site. So that a person would get in, open a porn site, and say: I’ve already seen this, I want to see something else.”
Putin’s remarks were part of wider talks on family values and youth issues, where he called for creative ways to address societal challenges.
During the session, Putin also discussed key geopolitical and domestic issues. Reflecting on Russia’s military operation in Ukraine, he admitted it might have been better to act sooner. He was quoted by Russia Today as saying, “Such a decision, which was made at the beginning of 2022, should have been made earlier,” stressing the importance of securing Russia’s national interests.
Regarding Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Putin suggested he might seek refuge abroad. As reported by Russia Today, he remarked, “He will be supported by the people whose interests he serves today.”
Putin also praised Russia’s relationship with China, saying it is stronger than ever. He highlighted joint energy and military projects as examples of mutual benefit, rejecting the idea that Russia depends too much on China.