What Russians are saying before the country's election

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In less than two weeks, Russians will decide the next tenant of the historic Kremlin building. But there isn't much doubt that current President Vladimir Putin will extend his stay for another six years.

Russian President Office In Kremlin /CGTN Photo

Recent opinion polls suggest a landslide victory for Putin in the country's presidential election later this month. If they're accurate, it would mean the Russian president could be in power for almost a quarter of a century. Although it appears that some in the West are not happy with that possibility, according to the polls, this sentiment isn't the same for most Russians.

Marina Nikolaeva, from the town of Ivanovo, said she would vote for Putin, but he will have to change certain things during his next term.

Marina Nikolaeve, teacher from Ivanovo /CGTN Photo

"Salaries and pensions have to increase," Marina said. "I work as a teacher, and salaries are, to say the least, not adequate. I don't work in Moscow and the salaries are not good. And in the future, the most important thing is for the economy to develop and social questions to be resolved as a result of that."

Irina, an entrepreneur, is also a Putin supporter because, as she said, the quality of living today is better than before.

Irina, an entrepreneur /CGTN Photo

"For anyone who wants to start an enterprise, a business or a family, the conditions are right for them here in our country. We do have some 'blind spots' in the country but, at the end, it all depends on one’s choice. Our country is rising and I think that everything will be fine."

Aleksey still hasn't decided who he will vote for on March 18. But from the next president, he expects a return of the capital that recently fled Russia, as well as more factories opening. Regarding Putin, he likes his policy towards Crimea.

Aleksey /CGTN Photo

Aleksey said: "I was born in Yalta, in Crimea, and today I can travel there without any problems. For me, it is a plus."

But not everyone had proactive position regarding the upcoming election. Ulyana seemed interested in politics, but has opted not to vote.

Ulyana /CGTN Photo

She said, "There are actually no good candidates, because every one of them has their own advantages and disadvantages, and I don't want to vote blindly."

Dasha and Nikita, students of Moscow University, didn't want to say who they'll vote for, but they expressed feeling like the country has changed for the better over the last six years.

Dasha and Nikita, students from the Moscow University /CGTN Photo

"When we travel abroad with our parents, I have begun to miss my home. Earlier, some six years ago, I didn't feel like this. I feel good here now."

In the face of rising tensions between Russia and the West, Russians expect their new (old) president to be up to the task.

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