Russian President Vladimir Putin was born in 1952 in Leningrad. Putin hails from humble roots.
His father was a World War Two veteran and played an essential role in shaping the Russian leader. He developed a deep sense of patriotism and respect for country from a young age.
Early life
His keen interest in intelligence led him to the Leningrad University Law Department. He then moved on to Russia’s state security KGB Soviet School.
By 1996, he moved into politics where he ascended to the Prime Minsiters office just three years later. Then, in 2000 he went on to be elected as Russia’s president.
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As head of state, Putin had his work cut out for him. He was faced with combating terrorism, organised crime and oligarch tyranny.
He also took the reins at a time when Russia’s economy was in severe financial and economic distress.
After two terms, Putin handed the presidency over to Dmitry Medvedev.
Political prowess
But he was reelected in 2012. Putin has clearly done well to address the country’s challenges. 75% Of Russians believe he is a good leader.
As a traditionalist, Putin openly and unashamedly opposes a “unipolar” world, which he says doesn’t work in a post-modern era.
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Russia together with its BRICS allies are pursuing a new world order. In which emerging nations develop closer ties as these countries have common interests. However, in recent years the Ukraine special military operation has taken centre stage in his political career.
Ukraine-Russian politics can be divisive and controversial. But, it is not simply black and white. It is a complex, multilayered event in the greater scheme of establishing a new world order. This multi-polar world will be Putin’s legacy.