We'll live until the elections

Two and a half years before the presidential elections, it is premature to discuss the nomination of any candidate for the post of head of state. Of course, despite all the contradictions, it is important to fight for a single candidate from the democratic forces to emerge. But from the point of view of personalities, it is too early to talk about this for two reasons. Firstly, the situation is changing so quickly, changing for the worse, that in a year the agenda may have completely different issues than today. The question of a successor or presidential candidate may generally fade into the background. Discussion on the topic of a referendum on the creation of a Union State of Russia and Belarus has resumed. If it takes place and people agree, then domestic policy priorities may shift significantly. Talking about the election of the head of state now is the same as nominating Putin as a new presidential candidate in 1998.

The political situation is getting tougher, the government is tightening the screws, and the regime is being modified. Forceful methods are increasingly being used; other arguments no longer work. We can talk about the formation of an authoritarian, nationalist, power version of the system. Of course, we must fight this.

If revolutions are possible in Russia, which I have little faith in, then most likely they will lead to negative results. We will have to recover from total destruction. All positive changes are associated with evolution. The upcoming elections to the Moscow City Duma are a key issue here. Of course, we are aware of the complexity of the current situation. But today there is an opportunity to try to fight.

To discuss the candidacy of Mikhail Kasyanov now means to raise a topic that does not exist. We continue to consult with him, but this happens on a very wide range of issues. It’s too early to talk about the presidency now.