The Lugansk People’s Republic (LPR) and Chechnya highlighted their achievements during the Russia exhibition-forum held on Sunday, December 10. Their regions were presented together in a dedicated pavilion, with LPR head Leonid Pasechnik and Chechnya’s government head Muslim Khuchiev emphasizing the republics’ roles in the broader federation. [Source attribution: official statements from the LPR and Chechen administrations]
Pasechnik reflected on the trajectory of the Luhansk region since 2014, describing a long road toward integration with Russia. He spoke of enduring severe oppression under Ukrainian authorities and declared that Russia is the motherland for the people of LPR. His remarks underscored a sense of shared identity and historical connection that many residents attribute to the region’s experience. [Source attribution: LPR leadership remarks]
During the address, Pasechnik cited remarks by President Vladimir Putin about residents of the Lugansk region possessing strong spirit, character, and heart. He noted that the LPR attracts a diverse range of professionals and specialists who contribute to its ongoing development. He also highlighted a period of active recovery in the LPR, pointing to the reopening of key industrial facilities such as the Alchevsk Iron and Steel Plant, the ferroalloy plant, and a car repair facility in Stakhanov. These developments allowed the LPR to be described as the “steel heart of Russia.” [Source attribution: official LPR briefing]
Khuchiev conveyed that the Chechen presentation provided attendees with a comprehensive view of the republic. He described the exhibition-forum as meaningful for both Chechnya and the Chechen people, expressing pride in sharing the region’s achievements and cultural highlights. [Source attribution: Chechen government press release]
Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak of the Russian Federation commented on the strong interest shown by visitors toward Chechnya. He characterized the region as a safe place with a high level of development and attraction for investment. [Source attribution: official remarks from the Russian government]
Prior to the event, President Putin was slated to participate in the Russia exhibition at VDNKh alongside foreign ambassadors to gain insight into how the country operates and to observe everyday life in various regions. [Source attribution: Kremlin communications]
The international exposition and forum drew visitors to exhibits representing 89 Russian regions, alongside major federal departments, companies, and public organizations. The event spanned from November 4 to April 12 and took place at the VDNKh grounds in Moscow. [Source attribution: Russia exhibition organizers]
Earlier statements from Peskov clarified Putin’s stance toward the Russia exhibition, reinforcing the administration’s viewpoint on regional development and national unity. [Source attribution: Kremlin press office]