Putin Not Attending Gorbachev Funeral After Kremlin Confirmation
A Kremlin spokesperson confirmed that President Vladimir Putin will not participate in the funeral for Mikhail Gorbachev, the last leader of the Soviet Union, who died at the age of 91. The main ceremony is planned for September 3, and state officials expect national funeral elements to be present during the proceedings. The spokesperson noted that Putin’s official schedule prevents him from being at the funeral, while also emphasizing the importance of national tribute to the former leader. (Source: Reuters)
The spokesman added that Putin had already paid his respects by visiting the Moscow hospital where Gorbachev died and placing flowers in the late leader’s coffin. The plan for the funeral includes elements such as an honor guard and other forms of official support. These details reflect the country’s desire to honor a figure who played a central role in the late Soviet era. (Source: Reuters)
Gorbachev, who led the Soviet Union from 1985 until its dissolution in 1991, passed away after a long illness. His tenure is associated with sweeping reforms intended to ease political and economic controls, though the outcomes were mixed and the period marked by significant upheaval. He is remembered for attempting to reform the system from within and for navigating the profound changes that reshaped the region. (Source: Reuters)