Russian President Vladimir Putin may announce his bid for reelection as early as this month. Russian media say his campaign for a presidential election scheduled for next March has effectively begun with an exposition touting Russia's achievements.

The ongoing large-scale event called "Russia Expo" opened in Moscow in early November.

It features Russia's space and nuclear technology, which the country often promotes. Booths from more than 80 regions are showcasing their industries and cultures. The expo apparently praises Putin's policies as a driver of Russia's development.

There are also booths introducing Crimea in southern Ukraine, which Russia unilaterally annexed in 2014, and four Ukrainian regions, which Russia unilaterally declared control over last year. The exhibits appear to stress the accomplishments of the invasion of Ukraine.

One woman said she felt proud of her country, adding that Russia is thriving despite all things that happened this year. A university student says his country has a great future.

The Russian parliament is expected to officially decide on the date of the presidential election this month.

Russian media and experts speculate that Putin may announce his candidacy at a news conference and a question and answer session with the public planned for December 14.