Vladimir Putin begins his fifth term as Russian president in an opulent Kremlin inauguration Tuesday, after destroying his political opponents, launching a devastating war in Ukraine and consolidating all power in his hands.
Already in office for nearly a quarter-century and the longest-serving Kremlin leader since Josef Stalin, Putin’s new term doesn’t expire until 2030, when he is constitutionally eligible to run for another six years.
He has transformed Russia from a country emerging from economic collapse to a pariah state that threatens global security. Following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine that has become Europe’s biggest conflict since World War II, Russia has been heavily sanctioned by the West and is turning other regimes like China, Iran and North Korea for support.
The question now is what the 71-year-old Putin will do over the course of another six years, both at home and abroad.
Giants rookie Mason Black makes MLB debut in Philadelphia against childhood favorite Phillies
REVEALED: The worst airports in the US
Trapped Chinese miners request pork sausages
Target launches new paid membership program in a bid to drive increased sales
Revealed: Bernard Hill's touching seven
How to get around the great Easter flight rip
King Charles leaves hospital as Kate recovers at home
Emerging trends for upcoming May Day holiday
Changes to Gloriavale response could risk gains
Babar hoping paceman Rauf will regain full fitness and make an impact for Pakistan at T20 World Cup
REVEALED: The worst airports in the US