Russia's state TV has released footage of President Vladimir Putin viewing nuclear-weapon-related displays at an exhibition in Moscow. Observers say he apparently wanted to portray himself as a strong leader of a nuclear power ahead of the country's presidential election in March.

Putin on Monday visited the exhibit for the first time. The large-scale show mainly focuses on Russia's achievements under Putin's government.

Putin stopped at the booth of Russia's state nuclear agency, Rosatom. It exhibits items related to Russia's nuclear weapons development since the Soviet era.

The state TV showed Putin being briefed about a simulation of the "nuclear button" at a mock control panel for a nuclear test.

The video was released amid Russian media's reports that Putin is expected to confirm as early as this month that he will run for his another six-year term. If he wins, he will serve as the Russian president for the fifth time.

Putin also attended an award ceremony for volunteers, and praised people who support Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Observers say he hopes to give the impression that the Russian people are unified in their support of the invasion.