President Vladimir Putin began his fifth term at a glittering Kremlin inauguration, embarking on another six years as leader of Russia after destroying his political opponents, launching a devastating war in Ukraine and concentrating all power in his hands.

Moscow

President Vladimir Putin has officially commenced his fifth term following a grand inauguration ceremony at the Kremlin. This victory marks the continuation of his leadership in Russia, which has spanned nearly twenty-five years. During the inaugural moments of his new term, Putin expressed his gratitude towards the soldiers involved in the military operations in Ukraine, acknowledging their service and sacrifice.

Putin's re-election was solidified with an 87% victory margin in an election that witnessed the disqualification of two anti-war candidates. This election has been criticized by exiled opposition figures and was met with international disapproval, as evidenced by the absence of ambassadors from the US, the UK, Canada, and most EU nations at the inauguration. As Putin embarks on another six years of leadership, his grip on Russian politics appears to have intensified compared to his position six years ago.

The political landscape in Russia has seen significant changes, with many opposition figures either imprisoned or living in exile. Notably, Alexei Navalny, a prominent critic of Putin, passed away in prison in February. His widow, Yulia Navalnaya, has been vocal in rallying support against Putin’s regime, emphasizing the importance of persistent efforts to challenge his authority. In 2020, Putin initiated constitutional amendments that potentially allow him to remain in power until 2036, despite the emergence of internal challenges and reported infighting within the Kremlin.



Putin begins his fifth term as Russian president

A familiar red carpet walk for Russian President Vladimir Putin, as a long and elaborate inauguration ceremony kicked off his latest six-year term, after almost a quarter of a century in power. Putin used the first moments of his new term to thank the soldiers fighting in his invasion of Ukraine. I want to bow before our heroes, the participants of the special military operation, a low bow to all those who fight. Putin won re-election last month by a record 87% in a tightly controlled election from which two anti-war candidates were barred, described as a sham by exiled opposition figures. The US, the UK, Canada and most EU nations boycotted the swearing-in by not sending their ambassadors. Putin now dominates Russian politics even more than he did at his last inauguration six years ago. Leading opposition figures are in prison or exile, and leading critic Alexei Navalny died in prison in February. His widow Yulia Navalnaya called on supporters to keep up the fight. We must make sure that no one in the world believes Putin, either in Russia or outside its borders. It's difficult, but we have to try, and that means persistent, stubborn daily work. Our country is now ruled by a liar, a thief and a murderer. In 2020, Putin made changes to the constitution which allow for him to stay in power until 2036, though his road ahead is not without obstacles, with reports emerging of infighting within the Kremlin.

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