Russian President Vladimir Putin has spoken about his early ambitions, revealing that as a child he hoped to become a pilot and a career in intelligence. The remarks came during a year-end press conference held on December 14, when the president reflected on his past dreams and the path that led him to leadership.
Putin noted that a person’s values and outlook can shift over time, shaped by the stages of life and the moments one experiences. He underscored that a person may hold different views about the world at different times, depending on circumstances and personal growth.
“I too wanted to be a pilot,” he said, adding that his real aspiration matured during high school when he began to entertain thoughts of becoming a spy. In his telling, the desire to serve in intelligence later crystallized into a concrete goal that would define much of his career and public service.
From the president’s perspective, this early interest in intelligence was something widely understood within the country by the time he reached his adult years. He framed it as a part of his personal journey that eventually aligned with his role in national leadership.
During the same event, Putin shared his hopes for the upcoming New Year, encouraging Russians to use the holiday period to be with family and loved ones, suggesting that personal connections should take precedence during festive times.
The December press conference was the culmination of a broader format that included a direct line, enabling Putin to address questions from journalists and ordinary citizens alike. A Kremlin spokesperson explained that preparations for the event began on the evening of December 12, setting the stage for a dialogue that mixed formal remarks with live inquiries.
In a prior exchange, Putin had commented on his relationship with the current French president, Emmanuel Macron, noting a direct but nuanced dynamic between the two leaders that shapes ongoing diplomatic interactions.