Vladimir Putin has formally begun his fifth term as Russia’s president, cementing his grip on power after nearly a quarter century. The carefully staged inauguration ceremony was attended by Russia’s top military and political leaders, but the US and many European nations declined to send representatives, dismissing the election as a sham.
Putin’s first inauguration in 2000 was hailed as a democratic milestone, but since then, he has manipulated the constitution to remove term limits and extend his rule. He has also suppressed opposition, with most opposition candidates either dead, jailed, exiled, or barred from running.
Putin was sworn in for another term (Credits: AOL.com)
In his speech, Putin claimed Russia is open to dialogue with Western countries, but the choice is theirs whether to pursue aggression or peace. However, his actions tell a different story, with Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine and annexation of occupied regions.
Ukraine condemned the inauguration as an attempt to legitimize Putin’s lifelong rule and dictatorship. France sent an envoy to the ceremony, despite denouncing the election’s context of repression.
Putin has tried to keep Russians isolated from the war’s effects, but pockets of dissent have emerged. Alexey Navalny, Putin’s most formidable opponent, died in prison in February, and Yevgeny Prigozhin, the former Wagner chief, was killed in a plane crash after briefly challenging Putin’s rule.
Russian President Putin takes oath (Credits: Asianet Newsable)
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has reshaped global geopolitics, prompting the West to treat Russia as a pariah state. However, Russia has sought new partnerships with countries in the “Global South” and deepened ties with Iran and North Korea to maintain its military capabilities. Putin claimed that Russia is open to strengthening relations with countries that see it as a reliable partner, which he believes is the global majority.
As Putin begins his new term, the world is watching closely to see what’s next for Russia and its relations with the international community. One thing is certain – Putin’s grip on power remains strong, and his influence on global politics will continue to be felt.
