Putin rejects historian's bid to shift Russia's capital to Siberia, Moscow remains the heart of the nation
Moscow has served as the capital of the Russian state since the 14th century, and thus far, nothing indicates that this status will change. Indeed, in 1712, Peter the Great declared that Saint Petersburg would be the country's core. However, after the Bolshevik revolution in 1918, Moscow once again re-established as the capital. Now, a proposition for change has surfaced.
3:40 AM EST, January 18, 2024
Siberian-based historian Afanasij Nikolajew raised this topic in a letter to Vladimir Putin. He boldly proposed relocating the capital from Moscow to Irkutsk, arguing it would be a better solution for the country. Furthermore, he stressed that such a move "will also ensure the balanced development of the European and Asian parts of Russia".
The Kremlin authorities took Nikolajew's suggestion seriously, responding to his letter.
"I don’t think it would be feasible," said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, as reported by Russian media. While the idea might seem sound, Moscow's growth over centuries has been such that no city in the region can rival it across any dimension. Thus, unfortunately, Siberian Irkutsk stands little chance.
In his letter, Afanasij Nikolajew expressed concern for the president's safety and the country's authorities. Close to Europe, Moscow can be easily reached by potential enemies, whereas Irkutsk remains comparatively inaccessible. The security of the president and the authorities in the Kremlin is of considerable importance, a traditional consideration in Russia.
One may question, however, whether Irkutsk could offer the same conditions as Moscow. This remains uncertain.
It is pretty probable this idea has been contemplated by Vladimir Putin, a native of St. Petersburg, who would presumably have preferred not to leave his home city. When Yevgeny Prigozhin launched a rebellion and marched on the capital, Putin and his entourage fled to St. Petersburg. However, he was compelled to return to Moscow, the true center of his power.
Unlikely anything will change anytime soon, as only in Moscow does Putin feel safe.
"In my opinion, there is no necessity," said Putin years ago when asked about the possibility of relocating the capital. He maintained that Moscow is the "historical and mental center of Russia," a status acknowledged worldwide. Putin commemorates the liberation of Moscow from Polish occupation (1610-1612) as a national holiday, further consolidating its central role in Russia’s fabric.
Nevertheless, the underlying issue is one of safety. The leader feels safe nowhere else but in Moscow, where sufficient security measures can be taken. Even Irkutsk does not offer the same level of security as a protected residence and bunker near the capital city.
