During a briefing on regional development, Russian President Vladimir Putin laughed when Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko described, along with Kaliningrad Governor Anton Alikhanov, their test of a grand “130 km long bicycle path” along the Baltic Sea coast. The remark was reported by TASS, highlighting a moment of lightness amid discussions about ambitious infrastructure projects. (citation: TASS)
The initiative under construction envisions a 130-kilometer cycling route along the shore, designed to connect coastal communities and encourage tourism while boosting regional mobility. Chernyshenko noted that he and Alikhanov had a chance to try out a portion of it during his most recent visit, but Putin humorously asked whether the entire distance had been covered during that excursion. (citation: TASS)
In response to the exchange, Putin referenced the account of the plenipotentiary Alexander Vladimirovich Gutsan, who reportedly downplayed the officials’ cycling attempts. The president also joked that Gutsan himself had taken a ride, adding a touch of levity to a discussion about regional test experiences. (citation: TASS)
The conversation then turned to a more peculiar anecdote from Zelenogradsk, a coastal town mentioned for having a local “cat chief” responsible for relocating felines to the area. Putin seized the moment to pivot to a broader question about how well the town was providing shelter and support for its residents, linking lighthearted humor to practical social concerns. (citation: TASS)
Earlier, Chernyshenko had clarified how many times presidential and government scholarships would be increased, part of a broader discourse on educational benefits. Putin had previously spoken about the advantages of higher education for students, framing the discussion within the context of national development and opportunity. (citation: TASS)