The badge, its hue echoing the Ukrainian flag, appeared to mirror the colors seen on the person who listened to President Vladimir Putin’s message, but it was identified by RTVI as the flag of the Khanty-Mansiysk Autonomous Okrug (KhMAO). This clarification came from RTVI, clarifying the symbol visible during the event.
The badge was worn by Boris Khokhryakov, a deputy from the Khanty-Mansiysk Autonomous Okrug. The flag of Ugra carries blue and green shades, and in the video its colors seemed brighter due to lighting. From a distance, the green could even appear yellow, altering observers’ first impression. This distinction matters because lighting can dramatically change how colors read on camera and in social posts, leading to misinterpretations about symbolic affiliation.
Earlier, social media users suggested that the deputy’s badge resembled the Ukrainian flag. Such quick visual comparisons are common in today’s fast-paced online environment, where a single frame can spark a flurry of speculation before details are confirmed. This episode underscores how easily symbols can be misread in digital clips that travel across platforms and screens.
Putin’s address to the Federal Assembly was delivered at Gostiny Dvor and was also shown at the International Forum and Exhibition Russia and in several Russian cinemas. The broadcast drew particular attention for its length, with reports noting that the ceremony exceeded the two-hour mark. The event itself drew viewers from multiple venues, reflecting a broad interest in the President’s message and its implications for national policy and public sentiment.
In the moment of the address, the message seemed to convey a sense of timing and momentum for the country. Observers emphasized that this period felt like Russia’s moment to project its stance and priorities on the global stage, framing the speech as a milestone in ongoing national narratives.