Putin’s Fifth Term: Consolidating Power

As Vladimir Putin begins his fifth term as Russian President, he is more in control of Russia than ever before. Already in office for nearly a quarter-century, he has concentrated power in his hands and is the longest-serving Kremlin leader since Josef Stalin. With his new term lasting until 2030, Putin’s influence remains unchallenged.

Despite facing heavy sanctions from the West following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, Putin has strengthened ties with regimes like China, Iran, and North Korea. Internally, his popularity is tied to improving living standards, but economic pressure due to military spending might lead to unpopular decisions, including raising taxes. Meanwhile, the crackdown on dissent and opposition continues unabated, with laws enacted to stifle criticism and silence independent voices.