The first anniversary of Russia's war of aggression on Ukraine is coming up. As t-online now reports, Russian President Vladimir Putin has already made certain preparations before the war - first and foremost for his personal safety.
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It has been reported that the Kremlin leader only moves from A to B in a private train that has been specially converted for him. A Russian investigative outlet called Dossier Center has now found out details about this.
Vladimir Putin uses a train for more security
Since the end of 2021, Putin has apparently been increasingly using the train, as t-online states, citing information from journalist Ilya Rozhdestvensky. The reason why the Russian leader does not simply use his private plane is simple - he fears for his own safety.
According to the report, Putin is apparently worried that it would be easier to track him in an airplane. He also wants to avoid a possible shooting down of the plane by changing his main means of transport. According to further information from t-online, Putin uses the train primarily to get to his residences.
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The train is specially equipped for Putin
In terms of equipment, the train has been specially adapted to the President's needs. There is a separate sleeping car, an office, and a special communication car. In addition, the train is said to be armoured.
According to t-online, Rozhdestvenskiy further states that the train visually resembles the trains commonly used throughout the country, however, it is still easily distinguishable from ordinary trains due to the many antennas on the roof.
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Putin made last precautions before the start of the war
The last precautions for the safer transport of the President are said to have taken place shortly before the invasion of Ukraine - a station in Moscow was specially rebuilt according to Putin's needs. There is now apparently an additional meeting room and a VIP room.
In addition, to ensure that Putin reaches his destination without delays, the entire timetable is tailored to him so that he can travel without stopping. The only person allowed to use the train apart from the Russian President is the Russian Prime Minister.
This article has been translated from Gentside DE.
Sources used:
Dossier Center: 'Vladimir Putin got on an armored train'
t-online: 'Besonders gepanzert: Putin soll fast nur noch mit Spezialzug reisen'