Vladimir Putin has formally commenced his fifth term as president of the Russian Federation in an inauguration ceremony that underscores his nearly unassailable position at the helm of Russian politics. The event, which took place in the opulent surroundings of the Kremlin, confirmed Putin as the country’s leader after a March election where he claimed victory with 87% of the vote – a figure that has drawn skepticism from international observers.
The US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller has commented on the election, saying, “We certainly did not consider that election free and fair, but he is the president of Russia and is going to continue in that capacity.” Putin’s return to the presidency comes at a time when Russia is facing unprecedented levels of international isolation due to its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, which has significantly altered the geopolitical landscape. The controversial election, which saw most opposition candidates sidelined by death, imprisonment, or exile, has further entrenched Putin’s grip on power, with dissent being effectively outlawed since the conflict began.
In a speech that followed his inauguration, Putin addressed the relationship with the West by stating, “Do they intend to continue trying to restrain the development of Russia, continue the policy of aggression, continuous pressure on our country for years, or look for a path to cooperation and peace?” His remarks come amid ongoing military efforts to capitalize on Russia’s vast resources in the war against Ukraine, anticipating the arrival of US aid to bolster Kyiv’s defenses.
Despite the palpable tension and absence of many Western dignitaries, France did send an envoy to the ceremony, with a French foreign ministry source noting condemnation of the election’s oppressive context. The inclusion of the Russian-installed leaders of the four occupied Ukrainian regions at the inauguration was a stark reminder of the contentious territory Russia has claimed during the conflict.
Putin’s path to this fifth term has been marked by systematic suppression of dissent, with notable opposition figures such as Yevgeny Prigozhin and Alexey Navalny no longer posing a threat due to their untimely deaths, both surrounded by a cloud of suspicion concerning Kremlin involvement. With the West treating Russia as a pariah state post-invasion, Putin has looked towards countries in the “Global South” and deepened partnerships with regimes like Iran and North Korea to bolster Russia’s military capabilities.
The question now is what Putin’s leadership will entail over the next six years, both domestically and internationally. As Russia pivots its economy to a wartime footing, ordinary Russians have begun to feel the economic pinch. Yet, Putin promises a prosperous future, though the reality may necessitate unpopular financial measures to continue the war effort.
Relevant articles:
– Putin inaugurated as president for fifth term with Russia under tight grip, cnn.com, 05/07/2024
– Vladimir Putin begins fifth term as Russian president at glittering Kremlin ceremony, The Associated Press, 05/07/2024
– Putin begins his fifth term as Russian president, NBC News, 05/07/2024
– Putin starts fifth term as Russian president with gilded ceremony, The Telegraph, 05/07/2024