article_snippet.sent: Putin's annual exercise is fascinating for ordinary Russians, who normally get Putin in closely managed doses on state-run television.
article_snippet.sent: Of course, critics of the Kremlin slam the entire event as Russia's imitation of democracy in action.
article_snippet.sent: It's hard to imagine a truly critical question, they say, getting aired on national television there.
article_snippet.sent: In fact, it's best not to look at the entire event as Russia's imitation of democracy in action as an opportunity for Russians to question Russians leader at all.
article_snippet.sent: Instead, it is more like a highly produced, highly choreographed chance for their leader to speak to Russians, and to the world.
article_snippet.sent: Last year, there was a "surprise" appearance by NSA whistle-blower Edward Snowden, who was granted asylum in Russia.
article_snippet.sent: He addressed Putin by video link, quizzing Putin about Moscow's own surveillance practices.
highlights_snippet.sent: Putin has spent hours fielding questions from the general public on live television .
  