Russian journalist proposes to girlfriend during Putin’s marathon press conference

Putin press conference turns romantic as journalist proposes live on air

A routine Kremlin press conference took an unexpected romantic turn when a young journalist proposed to his girlfriend live on air during Russian President Vladimir Putin’s marathon year-end briefing.

The unusual moment unfolded midway through the hours-long session, typically dominated by questions on war, foreign policy and Russia’s economy. Kirill Bazhanov, a 23-year-old regional journalist, stood out in the packed hall wearing a red bow tie and holding a placard that read “I want to get married”.

After catching Putin’s attention, Bazhanov briefly went off-script. “I know that my girlfriend is watching the press conference now,” he said, before adding, “Olechka, marry me!”

'Olga, will you marry me?' — local TV journalist proposes during the live Putin Q&A

‘Mr President, we would be so glad to see you at our wedding’ ‘You can wait forever, so best not to postpone’ — Putin pic.twitter.com/0H2bwZe7RH — RT (@RT_com) December 19, 2025

The spontaneous proposal drew laughter, cheers and applause from reporters as the live broadcast continued across Russia and abroad, according to AFP.

Bazhanov then proceeded with his planned question, raising concerns about the rising cost of living and high mortgage payments. He explained that he and his partner have been together for eight years but have struggled to plan a family due to financial pressures.

About an hour later, the session was interrupted with an update. “We are getting breaking news. This is very important for one of us who is here,” the moderator announced. “TASS is reporting that the girlfriend of Kirill Bazhanov has agreed to his proposal.”

Turning to the journalist, she added, “She will marry you.”

The hall erupted into applause once again, with Putin joining in the clapping.

Encouraged by the response, Bazhanov addressed the Russian president directly, saying, “Mr President, we would be so glad to see you at our wedding ceremony.”

Putin declined the invitation but played along with a light-hearted remark.

“Kirill was just asking about the material conditions for young families,” he said. “And that’s right — a man should be the breadwinner. Now we’ll pass the hat around and collect at least enough for the wedding.”

Putin’s annual question-and-answer session is known for its long duration and wide-ranging topics, but the surprise proposal added a rare personal and emotional moment to the Kremlin’s usually stern political stage.