Putin leaves Moscow and St. Petersburg for the first time in seven months — to stage a walkabout in Kazan

Vladimir Putin made a rare departure from Moscow and St. Petersburg on June 17, visiting Kazan for the Russia–ASEAN summit, marking his first trip outside these cities in seven months. This visit underscores his efforts to re-engage with regional events and international partners, signaling a potential shift in his public appearances and diplomatic focus. While it's a small step, it might hint at a broader strategy to project stability and normalcy in Russia's international relations amid ongoing global scrutiny.