UFA, Russia — As President Vladimir V. Putin was about to step out onto the gleaming white cement floor of the Ufa Engine Industrial Association, where motors are assembled for military helicopters, Alyona V. Popova was busy organizing her work station, more out of nerves than necessity.

His predetermined path would lead him right past her spot in the government-owned plant, erected six months ago as part of the president’s program for military hardware once built in the now-hostile territory of Ukraine.

Ms. Popova, 26, was grateful to the president for helping her finally land a factory job with a future. She allowed, however, that she might express a few qualms if he stopped to chat.

“Our salaries are low,” she said, under $500 a month, and Russia spent excessive rubles on foreign adventures. “When will that money flow into Russia instead of flowing out?” she added, echoing remarks made by other workers. “We need roads built according to modern standards.”