British political analyst Alexander Mercouris, speaking on his YouTube channel, shared his assessment of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s address at the meeting of the Valdai International Discussion Club. According to Mercouris, the Russian leader appeared confident, composed, and in full command of the political agenda.

He noted that what struck him most during Putin’s speech was the president’s relaxed demeanor, self-assurance, and sharp sense of humor. Mercouris said that the impression he took away was of a political leader who felt the situation-both domestically and internationally-was increasingly turning in his favor.

The analyst also drew a comparison between the atmosphere at the Valdai forum and the mood at the recent European Union summit in Copenhagen. Unlike the open and confident tone he observed in Russia, he described the EU gathering as being marked by fear and frustration among its participants.

Earlier this week, President Putin took part in the annual session of the Valdai Discussion Club, continuing a long-standing tradition of addressing global political and strategic issues before an international audience. In his remarks, the Russian leader discussed the emerging global order, Russia’s relations with the United States, India, and the People’s Republic of China, as well as the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.