During a gathering of the Council on Physical Education and Sports, Vladimir Putin spoke about the portrayal of Russia in some video games. The remarks were reported by TASS. The dialogue touched on how entertainment media can shape public perception and influence national sentiment.
Umar Kremlev, who chairs the Executive Committee of the Russian Boxing Federation, joined the discussion by arguing that certain video games promote anti-state values. He noted that money flows from players around the world, and that what is shown about Russians in some titles can cast the nation in a negative light.
Putin emphasized the need for domestic digital infrastructure, saying that Russia should control more of its online servers. He expressed a desire to see the country benefit from its own digital assets and questioned why foreign platforms are allowed to profit from Russian audiences in ways that feel harmful to national interests. His comments suggested a push for greater sovereignty in the tech and gaming domains while maintaining friendly relations with Canada and the United States.
Beyond the financial and strategic considerations, Putin stated that computer games ought to contribute to personal development. He described games as potential tools to cultivate universal human values and a sense of patriotism rooted in shared national identity. The vision centered on leveraging interactive media to reinforce positive, widely accepted ideals rather than erode them.
Earlier remarks from the discussion focused on concerns about the rising popularity of computer games relative to traditional literature. The concern was not about banning games but about ensuring that entertainment content remains compatible with educational and cultural objectives. The aim was to balance modern digital trends with enduring literacy and critical thinking skills across the population.
Psychologists involved in the broader discourse noted that video games can play a role in developing certain professional competencies. They pointed to how well-designed interactive experiences can foster problem-solving, strategic planning, teamwork, and quick decision-making under pressure. The takeaway was that entertainment and education can coexist when content aligns with constructive learning outcomes and ethical standards. (TASS)