NewsPutin puzzles minister with Antarctic ice age inquiry in Russian government meeting

Putin puzzles minister with Antarctic ice age inquiry in Russian government meeting

Vladimir Putin ponders on the history of the globe.
Vladimir Putin ponders on the history of the globe.
Images source: © X

3:03 PM EST, November 10, 2023

An unconventional exchange took place during the recent Russian government meeting. A seemingly perplexed Vladimir Putin questioned his minister about the age of ice in Antarctica. The minister was apparently taken aback, unprepared for such a query from the Kremlin politician.

At times, government meetings in Russia could be mistaken for satirical film scenes or comedy sketches. Vladimir Putin, known for his strong leadership persona, occasionally publicly embarrasses members of his cabinet, and this meeting was no exception.

The president asked Minister of Natural Resources and the Environment, Aleksandr Kozlov, about the duration of ice existence in Antarctica.

"Has there been ice in Antarctica for over 1,200,000 years?" Vladimir Putin queried his minister.

Presumably, Putin’s question hinted at his skepticism about global warming and climate change.

The government official's consternation was evident, but he attempted to provide a straightforward answer to the Russian president.

Putin debates with his minister

"Yes, Mr. President. Most importantly, the research findings will assist us in substantiating any modifications in the climate agenda, which is presently a popular debate globally," Kozlov explained objectively.

However, Putin didn’t stop there - he continued to challenge his official.

"Or could it be that what froze wasn't 1,200,000 years ago, but more recent? Is this plausible?" the Russian leader continued to probe.

Aleksandr Kozlov remained steadfast in his response. He insisted that scientific data supports these numbers and is difficult to dispute.

"Science supports precisely what I initially mentioned," added the Minister of Natural Resources and the Environment.

The video confirms that Putin seemingly lacks respect for his officials, turning what should be a serious government meeting into a mockery.