Russian President Vladimir Putin’s Eid al-Fitr address to Muslim communities underscores his commitment to Russia’s long-standing tradition of interfaith and intercultural harmony, according to political scientist and candidate of historical sciences Alexander Rudakov.
Rudakov notes that the president presents himself as a leader for every resident of the country, embracing all nationalities and religions. He calls Russia a single family, a collective of diverse peoples and faiths, where religious traditions flourish within a framework of mutual respect and good neighborliness.
The analyst believes the president’s actions reflect a deliberate effort to protect this heritage and the historical experience that has guided Russia through centuries.
Putin’s customary greetings to Russia’s major religious communities on their most significant holiday emphasize respect for each tradition, the long history of these faiths within the nation, and the rights of people to hold beliefs and practice freely, Rudakov explains.
He stresses that the traditional religions of Russia share a common ethical core and value system. Shared understandings of good and evil, righteousness and immorality, and what is right or wrong have long shaped the nation’s history.
Rudakov highlights how solidarity among people raised in diverse religious cultures helped Russia endure the Patriotic War of 1812 and the Great Patriotic War, strengthening national resilience.
In today’s context, the scholar argues, the unity of different nationalities and faiths within the country continues to play a crucial role in countering international terrorism and maintaining state cohesion.
He also notes that these dynamics influence state efforts to support religious education and, in particular, to revive Muslim traditions of spiritual instruction across Russia.
On April 21, Putin offered Eid al-Fitr greetings to Russian Muslims, wishing them health, happiness, energy, and the strength to perform good deeds. The president’s message was published on the official Kremlin website, reflecting the government’s ongoing stance on religious freedom and interfaith dialogue.