In the cavernous and opulent St. Andrew Hall of the Grand Kremlin Palace, a historic moment unfolded that would have a profound impact on international affairs and the architecture of global power. It was in this grand setting that Vladimir Putin was sworn into his fifth term as Russia’s president, a tenure that could possibly stretch his rule to over three decades. Amid the glitter and the pageantry, this inauguration was notable not just for its ceremonial significance but also for the international tremors it sent amidst a backdrop of war and increasing tensions.
Putin’s unopposed ascension, an event boycotted by the US, the UK, and most European envoys, was punctuated by declarations that reinforced his hardline stances and strategic direction. Addressing Russia’s political elite and few European representatives who did attend, Putin heralded the “correctness of the country’s course,” a stark affirmation at a time when Russia’s military intervention in Ukraine continues to cause widespread death and displacement.
The language used by Putin is symbolic of an unyielding posture, both to his domestic audience and on the international stage. The Russian leader stated, “You, citizens of Russia, have confirmed the correctness of the country’s course,” asserting a deep understanding of Russia’s historical goals amidst what he perceives as challenges to the nation’s sovereignty. It’s a poignant reflection of the tenor within Russia’s government, one of staunch patriotism mixed with defiance against perceived external pressure.
As he continues to wage war in Ukraine, Putin’s foreign policy draws an iron curtain between Russia and the West. In his inauguration speech, Putin laid out a choice for Western powers: to continue efforts to contain Russia or to seek cooperation and peace. “Dialogue, including on security and strategic stability, is possible, but not from a position of strength, without any arrogance, swagger and exclusivity claims, but only on equal terms and with due respect for each other’s interests,” he declared.
Meanwhile, the Kremlin downplayed the absence of Western diplomats, focusing instead on the presence of envoys from countries like France and Hungary. The retort to the West was clear: Russia was not as isolated as some would believe. Putin emphasized, “The world’s majority … view Russia as a reliable and honest partner.”
Yet, the voices of opposition, suppressed and silenced within Russia, portray a starkly different picture. The late opposition leader’s wife, Yulia Navalnaya, lamented the state of her country under Putin: “War, political assassinations, impoverishment of Russians… There is no prosperity for Russia, there is no peace and freedom for our citizens.” And abroad, the Estonian foreign minister, Margus Tsahkna, echoed a sentiment of resistance, firmly stating that Estonian diplomats would not attend an inauguration “while Ukrainians are daily being killed and deported.”
Relevant articles:
– Putin sworn in for fifth term in ceremony boycotted by US and UK, The Guardian
– Putin Begins Fifth Term As President, More In Control Of Russia Than Ever, HuffPost
– As Putin begins another 6-year term, he is entering a new era of extraordinary power in Russia, ABC News – Breaking News, Latest News and Videos
– Ukraine-Russia war latest: Putin’s words might concern West as he gives inauguration speech; plot to ‘kill Zelenskyy’ stopped, Sky News