Experts explain why Putin postponed his annual address to the federal assembly

This is according to a report by the Institute for the Study of War (ISW).

Military analysts believe Putin has postponed his annual address to the federal assembly because he is unsure if he can continue to shape Russian infospace amid growing criticism of his behaviour over the invasion of Ukraine.

Also, Putin may be postponing the moment when he has to admit Russia's defeat in the war against Ukraine

Russia's flight from the Kiev region and northern Ukraine in April 2022 may have spoiled Putin's plans to proclaim victory during his address to the federal assembly.

The Kremlin is still trying to exonerate Putin and says he may deliver the address in 2023.

Putin's latest actions have drawn criticism even in patriotic circles, concerning his vague statements about the duration of the war and the second wave of mobilisation. In addition, the flight of Russians from Kherson has drawn criticism from ideologues of the "Russian world"