Russia's Novosibirsk put under tight security ahead of Putin's arrival
Photo: Russian President Vladimir Putin in Novosibirsk (Getty Images)
Residents of Novosibirsk were reportedly banned from going outside. At a local university, the cafeteria and swimming pool were closed, while dormitories were placed under control. All this was due to Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit, according to the ASTRA Telegram channel.
Putin drives through empty streets of Novosibirsk
Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Novosibirsk in the early hours of August 11 to open:
- The Siberian Ring Source of Photons at the Koltsovo Science City;
- A student campus in Akademgorodok.
Police officers began taking positions along his route the previous evening. Security forces were stationed every 50 meters, according to a correspondent for Govorit NeMoskva.
Security officials reportedly gave residents of buildings along the motorcade's route the following instructions:
- Refrain from going outside while the motorcade was passing;
- Cover their windows and stay away from them;
- Refrain from using electronic or optical devices;
- Remove cars from Bolshevistskaya Street.
Students
Roads were blocked in Akademgorodok, while metal barriers were installed around the buildings of Novosibirsk State University, the outlet reported.
Students were sent messages instructing them not to open their windows or approach them.
At least five dormitories were warned about:
- Restrictions on movement;
- Disruptions to communications and internet access;
- Possible delivery delays.
The student cafeteria and swimming pool were closed, while electric scooter rentals were suspended across much of Akademgorodok and the city center.
Preparations for Putin's visit
Ahead of Putin's visit, the city saw:
- Resurfacing of roads;
- Repairs to sidewalks and building facades;
- New lawns being laid.
Gasoline prices
Interestingly, unlike during Putin's previous trips, gasoline prices in Novosibirsk did not fall ahead of his arrival.
Before Putin's visits to Irkutsk in July and Krasnoyarsk in early August, local residents noticed lower fuel prices and the disappearance of lines at gas stations. After Putin left, prices returned to previous levels.
On the morning of August 11, prices in Novosibirsk remained roughly at the level seen in previous days: AI-92 and AI-95 gasoline cost between 63 and 85 rubles per liter at different gas station chains.
RBC-Ukraine previously reported that after resuming his regional visits, Putin stopped traveling to the European part of Russia, as Ukrainian drones regularly reach the area.
It was also reported that gasoline prices at gas stations in Krasnoyarsk fell sharply ahead of Putin's visit. Restrictions on fuel sales also disappeared.
